Serves 4 | Prep 15 min | Cook 8 min
Golden, crunchy mozzarella sticks with a gooey, stretchy middle — no deep frying needed. The double crumb coat and two short freezes are the secret: the crust sets firmly so the cheese melts inside instead of leaking out.
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, halved
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
- Warm marinara sauce, to serve
Instructions
- Freeze the cheese sticks for 30 minutes so they hold their shape.
- Coat each stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs mixed with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coat for a thick crust.
- Freeze again for 15 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket, place the sticks in a single layer and spray the tops lightly.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes until golden and crisp, then serve at once with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips
- Don’t skip either freeze — this is what stops the cheese bursting through the crust.
- Work in a single layer with space between the sticks so the hot air can crisp all sides.
- Serve immediately; mozzarella sticks firm up quickly as they cool.
Storage
Best eaten fresh. Leftover cooked sticks can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer at 400°F for 2–3 minutes to crisp up again. Uncooked crumbed sticks freeze well for up to 1 month — cook from frozen, adding a minute or two.
FAQ
Why did my cheese leak out?
The sticks weren’t cold enough or the coating had gaps. Make sure both freezes happen and press the crumbs on firmly, especially at the ends.
Can I use fresh mozzarella?
String cheese works best because it’s firm and low-moisture. Fresh mozzarella is too wet and will leak.
Can I make them ahead for a party?
Yes — crumb and freeze them in advance, then air fry straight from frozen when guests arrive.