Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Mozzarella sticks are a popular snack, but can you make them in an air fryer? The answer is yes, but it requires careful attention to detail. Air fryers are like mini convection ovens that cook food faster than a conventional oven. They can make mozzarella sticks crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. However, if not prepared correctly, the cheese can explode and stick to the inside of the air fryer. To avoid this, it's important to double-coat the mozzarella sticks by dipping them in egg and breadcrumbs and freezing them before air frying. This process ensures a crunchy exterior and prevents the coating from sliding off. When cooking, it's best to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer, which can lead to uneven cooking. Additionally, there is no need to thaw frozen mozzarella sticks before air frying, as this can affect the crispiness of the coating. The cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model, but on average, it takes around 5-7 minutes at a temperature of 360-390 degrees Fahrenheit. It's also recommended to flip the sticks halfway through for even cooking. So, if you're looking for a quick and delicious snack, mozzarella sticks in the air fryer can be a great option!

How to make mozzarella sticks in an air fryer from scratch

Ingredients:

• 8 mozzarella cheese strings
• 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Method:

• Cut the mozzarella sticks in half.
• Whisk the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water.
• In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Panko breadcrumbs, vegetable oil, and garlic powder. Place the flour in a third bowl and season with salt and pepper.
• Dip each mozzarella stick into the eggs, then into the flour mixture. Dip back into the eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Place on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes (or up to 6 months).
• Preheat the air fryer to 390°F.
• Generously spray the mozzarella sticks with oil or cooking spray.
• Place the mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until crisp.

Tips:

• If you don't have an air fryer, these can be baked in a preheated oven at 400°F for 9-11 minutes.
• Freezing the mozzarella sticks before cooking allows the crumbs to crisp up without the cheese melting out.
• Be sure to preheat the air fryer and keep in mind that air fryers can vary. Check the mozzarella sticks early, at around 4 minutes. Once you see cheese starting to bubble, they're ready.
• Purchased frozen mozzarella sticks will cook for about 5-7 minutes at 390°F.

How to reheat mozzarella sticks in an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat mozzarella sticks in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Make sure your mozzarella sticks are frozen solid before you begin. Do not thaw them. You can use store-bought frozen mozzarella sticks or freeze any leftover refrigerated sticks in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Preheat your air fryer to 360-375°F (183°C).
• Place the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer on the bottom of the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded and leave space for the air to circulate.
• Lightly drizzle olive oil over the sticks. You can also sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder on top if desired.
• Air fry the mozzarella sticks for 3-4 minutes at 360-375°F. For best results, shake the basket halfway through cooking and fry for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt and ooze out.
• Check the mozzarella sticks periodically to ensure they do not overcook.
• Once done, remove the sticks from the air fryer and let them cool on a paper towel for a few minutes before serving.
• Serve with your favourite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce.

Note: Keep a close eye on the mozzarella sticks as they reheat, as they may split open if you heat them for too long. Also, test out a single stick before serving to ensure the cheese is melted and pulls easily.

How to prevent mozzarella from exploding in an air fryer

Mozzarella sticks are a great snack to make in an air fryer, but if not prepared properly, they can end up making a mess by exploding in the fryer. Here are some tips to prevent that from happening:

Double-coat the Mozzarella Sticks

The first tip to prevent mozzarella from exploding in the air fryer is to double-coat the sticks. This is a crucial step because if the sticks are not coated properly, the coating will slide off once you put them in the fryer. This will not only make a mess but also result in uneven cooking. To double-coat, dip the mozzarella stick in a lightly beaten egg, followed by breadcrumbs, and then repeat this process for a second coating.

Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks

Freezing the mozzarella sticks before air-frying them is another important step to prevent them from exploding. Freezing helps the sticks maintain their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly, which can cause them to burst. Make sure the sticks are completely frozen and dry to the touch before placing them in the air fryer.

Use Non-stick Spray

Using a non-stick spray on the air fryer basket and the mozzarella sticks themselves can also help prevent explosions. The spray helps to ensure that the sticks don't stick to the basket, and it also promotes even browning. Choose a non-stick spray that is suitable for cooking, such as a cooking spray oil.

Work in Batches

Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the mozzarella sticks in batches to prevent overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking, leading to some sticks being overcooked and exploding. It's better to work in batches and ensure that the sticks have enough space to cook properly.

Start with a Low Cook Time

When cooking mozzarella sticks in an air fryer, it's important to start with a low cook time and then add more time as needed. This is because overcooking the sticks can cause them to burst. If you're not sure about the cook time, it's better to start with a shorter time and then add a minute or two at a time to avoid overcooking.

By following these tips, you can help prevent mozzarella sticks from exploding in your air fryer and enjoy perfectly cooked, crispy, and gooey cheese sticks.

What to serve with mozzarella sticks

Mozzarella sticks are a versatile snack, and there are endless options for side dishes to serve with them. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal or snack and create a well-rounded, delicious experience:

• Salads: A fresh salad can be a great way to balance out the richness of the mozzarella sticks. You can opt for a classic Caesar salad, a garden salad, or get creative with seasonal vegetables. The crispiness of the mozzarella sticks will complement the freshness of the salad, and you can even add a dressing of your choice – just avoid cheese-based ones.
• Dipping Sauces: Mozzarella sticks pair well with various dipping sauces. The classic choice is marinara sauce, but feel free to experiment with other options like BBQ sauce, ranch, buffalo sauce, or a simple tomato sauce.
• Pickles: Pickles, especially pickled cucumbers and peppers, make an excellent side dish for mozzarella sticks. They add a refreshing and acidic contrast to the cheesy sticks and go well with both fried and baked versions.
• Guacamole: This classic Mexican dip is a perfect pairing for mozzarella sticks. You can buy it ready-made or quickly make your own by mashing a ripe avocado with chopped tomatoes, red onion, lime or lemon juice, and cilantro.
• Garlic Bread: The combination of garlic bread and mozzarella sticks is a match made in heaven. You can buy frozen garlic bread or make your own by spreading garlic powder and olive oil on bread and baking it until golden and crispy.
• Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy grilled chicken, especially chicken breasts, pairs beautifully with the cheese on the sticks. It's a safe and delicious option to serve alongside.
• Fish and Chips: Mozzarella sticks can elevate the classic British dish of fish and chips. The crispy golden coating of the sticks complements the crispy fish fillets and fries, and they also go well with any sauce you choose.
• Steak and Vegetables: If you're looking for a hearty meal, serve mozzarella sticks with a juicy steak and a side of fresh or steamed vegetables. It's a nutritious and appetizing combination.
• Pigs in a Blanket: This side dish goes hand-in-hand with mozzarella sticks and is perfect for a party or game day spread. Like the sticks, they also pair well with a marinara dip.
• Tomato Soup: A comforting bowl of creamy tomato soup is an excellent companion to mozzarella sticks. Dip the sticks into the thick, sweet, and tangy broth for a delightful flavour combination.
• Meatballs in Marinara: These meatballs give you two treats in one—delicious meatballs and a delectable marinara sauce perfect for dipping your mozzarella sticks. Thread each meatball with a toothpick for easy serving.
• Chicken Wings: Chicken wings are a game day staple, and they pair well with mozzarella sticks. Try honey garlic chicken wings for a sweet and savoury combo that will satisfy everyone.
• Spinach Balls: If you're looking for a vegetarian option, spinach balls are a great way to sneak veggies into your meal. They're made with stuffing, spinach, and parmesan cheese, and they're sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

These suggestions just scratch the surface of the endless possibilities for side dishes to serve with mozzarella sticks. Get creative, and don't be afraid to experiment with different flavours and cuisines!

How to store leftover mozzarella sticks

Storing leftover mozzarella sticks is a bit of a challenge, as they are best enjoyed fresh and tend to become soggy and chewy if left for too long. However, if you have some self-control and follow these steps, you can make the most of your leftover mozzarella treats.

Firstly, it is important to note that mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed straight after cooking. If you have to store them, it is best to do so for no more than 2-3 hours, as they will quickly lose their desirable texture.

If you are storing the sticks for a short period before a picnic, for example, it is best to keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help to maintain their texture and reduce the risk of sogginess.

If you are storing leftover sticks for the next day, it is recommended that you store them in an airtight container in the fridge for no more than two days. You can reheat them in the air fryer at 360°F for 3-4 minutes, but keep a close eye on them, as the cheese may start to melt and split open.

If you have a lot of leftover sticks, you can also freeze them for a future snack. To do this, place the cooked mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, reduce the temperature of your air fryer to 360°F and increase the cooking time to 8-10 minutes to ensure they are heated through.

Mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed fresh, but with these tips, you can make the most of your leftovers without compromising too much on taste and texture.

Frequently asked questions