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Easy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: A Delightful Snack for Cheese Lovers

If you’re on the lookout for a quick and easy snack that delivers on flavour and texture, look no further than air fryer mozzarella sticks. These crispy, gooey bites are perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply indulging at home. With the air fryer, you can achieve that golden crunch without the need for deep frying, making this a somewhat healthier option. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will have you enjoying delicious mozzarella sticks in no time!

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of air fryer mozzarella sticks, you will need the following ingredients:

• 10 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
• 1 cup plain flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks

Start by unwrapping the mozzarella sticks and cutting them in half if you prefer shorter bites. This will give you around 20 pieces, perfect for sharing.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process:

1. Flour Bowl: Place the plain flour in the first bowl. You can season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to add some flavour.

2. Egg Bowl: In the second bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them together until fully combined.

3. Breadcrumb Bowl: In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning if using. This will give the mozzarella sticks a delightful flavour and crispy texture.

Step 3: Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

Now comes the fun part—breading! Take each mozzarella stick and follow these steps:

• Dredge it first in the flour, ensuring it is evenly coated.
• Dip it into the whisked eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs to the cheese.

Once all the mozzarella sticks are breaded, place them on a plate and pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the cheese stay intact while cooking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F). While it’s heating, take the mozzarella sticks out of the freezer. Spray them lightly with cooking spray to help achieve that golden-brown colour.

Arrange the sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

Cook the mozzarella sticks for about 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for a nice golden colour and a bit of bubbling cheese on the edges.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer. Let them cool for a minute before serving. They pair beautifully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy dipping sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.

Tips for the Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

• Use String Cheese: For the best results, opt for the classic string cheese variety. It’s designed to melt perfectly.
• Freezing is Key: Don’t skip the freezing step; this ensures that the cheese doesn’t ooze out during the cooking process.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to customise the seasoning in the breadcrumbs. Adding a pinch of cayenne can provide a lovely kick!

Conclusion

Air fryer mozzarella sticks are a fantastic, quick, and tasty snack that can be personalised based on your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying them solo or sharing them with friends, this indulgent treat is bound to please any cheese lover. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to indulge in these delightful bites that are wonderfully crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside! Enjoy every cheesy morsel!

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