With their gooey cheese centres and crispy exteriors, Mozzarella sticks have long been a favourite appetizer and snack for many. Traditionally deep-fried, they are undeniably delicious but have a hefty dose of calories and fat. Enter the air fryer—a game-changer in the culinary world. This innovative appliance can achieve crispy perfection without immersing the sticks in oil.
Let’s dive into the world of air-fried mozzarella sticks and discover a healthier way to enjoy this beloved treat.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Equipment
- Three shallow dishes, for flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs
- Tongs for easy flipping and handling
- Air fryer parchment paper or a light spray of cooking oil, to prevent sticking
- A plate or tray lined with parchment paper for placing breaded mozzarella sticks before cooking
Ingredients
- 12 Mozzarella cheese sticks, frozen for at least 2 hours
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 Eggs, large, beaten
- 1.5 cups Breadcrumbs, preferably Italian seasoned
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Basil, dried
- 1 tsp Oregano, dried
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, basil, and oregano.
- Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the sticks to ensure they stick.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately with marinara sauce.
- Freeze the Cheese: Before breading, ensure your mozzarella sticks are frozen for at least 2 hours. This prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and oozing out during the cooking process.
- Double-Coating: For an extra crispy exterior, consider double-dipping the mozzarella sticks in the egg and breadcrumb mixture. This creates a thicker coating that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Place the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and less crispy results.
- Monitor Closely: Air fryers can vary in their cooking intensity. It’s essential to keep an eye on the mozzarella sticks, especially during the last few minutes, to prevent overcooking or potential cheese explosions.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: Summing Up
Air-fried mozzarella sticks offer a delightful twist on a classic favourite. Using the air fryer can achieve that desired crispy texture while significantly reducing the oil content. With the right equipment, a few chef’s tips, and a bit of practice, you’ll master the art of making these delicious, guilt-free treats. These mozzarella sticks will surely be a hit with adults and kids alike, perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just a cosy evening at home.
So, why wait? Dive into the world of air frying and indulge in a tasty and relatively guilt-free snack!
