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Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade Herb Breadcrumbs

crispy air fryer mozzarella sticks - featured image

These crispy air fryer mozzarella sticks feature a golden herb breadcrumb coating and perfectly melty cheese inside, offering a quick, easy, and guilt-free snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Mozzarella sticks (frozen or fresh, pre-cut)
  • 1½ cups (150g) Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

  1. Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, dried oregano, dried basil, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional Parmesan cheese. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Set up dredging stations: Place all-purpose flour in one bowl and beaten eggs in another.
  3. Coat the mozzarella sticks one at a time by rolling in flour, shaking off excess, dipping into beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then rolling in the herb breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
  4. Place the coated sticks on a wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to set the coating and prevent cheese leakage.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Arrange mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation.
  7. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for golden brown color and melted cheese; add 1-2 more minutes if needed.
  8. Serve immediately with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip.

Notes

Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before air frying to prevent cheese leakage and ensure a crispy coating. Double dipping in egg and breadcrumbs creates a sturdier crust. Preheat the air fryer and avoid overcrowding the basket for even cooking. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer, crispy, herb breadcrumbs, snack, appetizer, easy recipe, quick snack, party food