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Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade Snack with Marinara Sauce

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A quick and easy homemade snack featuring crispy, melty mozzarella sticks cooked in the air fryer and served with tangy marinara sauce.

Ingredients

  • Mozzarella cheese sticks or mozzarella logs cut into 3 to 4-inch sticks
  • All-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour)
  • Large eggs, beaten
  • Italian-style breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Italian seasoning (dried oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or olive oil
  • Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Cut mozzarella logs into 3 to 4-inch sticks if using logs. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. (5 minutes)
  2. Set up breading stations: place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second bowl, and combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in the third bowl. Mix well. (5 minutes)
  3. Coat each cheese stick by rolling in flour, shaking off excess, dipping in beaten eggs, then coating thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps one more time for a triple coating. (10 minutes)
  4. Arrange coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and freeze for at least 30 minutes to set the coating. (30 minutes)
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Lightly spray or brush air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil. Place frozen sticks in a single layer without touching. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to avoid overcooking. (8 minutes)
  7. Remove sticks carefully with tongs and serve immediately with marinara sauce.

Notes

Triple coating the cheese sticks and freezing them before air frying prevents cheese leakage and ensures a crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking. Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer, crispy snack, homemade, marinara sauce, easy recipe, party appetizer

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/crispy-air-fryer-mozzarella-sticks-recipe-easy-homemade-snack-with-marinara-sauce/