Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks: Crispy, Quick, And Easy!

Making mozzarella sticks in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get that crispy, golden exterior and gooey, melted cheese interior. The Philips AirFryer is a great option for making this snack, and with just a few simple steps, you can have delicious, pizza shop-worthy mozzarella sticks in no time!

Choosing the right cheese

Type of Cheese:

• Mozzarella: This is the classic choice for making mozzarella sticks. Opt for whole milk mozzarella, as it offers a superior flavour and stretchiness compared to part-skim milk varieties. You can use a block of mozzarella and cut it into sticks, or go for string cheese, which is more convenient and provides a slightly different texture.
• String Cheese: While not traditional, string cheese is a convenient option as it comes in pre-portioned sticks. However, the texture and flavour may differ from block mozzarella.

Cheese Quality:

• Full-Fat vs. Low-Fat: When selecting mozzarella cheese, consider the fat content. Full-fat mozzarella is generally recommended for the best flavour and texture. Low-fat mozzarella may result in a slightly rubbery texture, and non-fat varieties may not be suitable for mozzarella sticks.
• Freshness: Always choose fresh, high-quality cheese. Check the expiration date and avoid cheese that shows signs of spoilage, such as changes in colour, texture, or odour.

Quantity:

When making mozzarella sticks, ensure you have enough cheese to cut into the desired number of sticks. A 16-ounce block of mozzarella typically yields around 20-24 cheese sticks, depending on the thickness you prefer.

Storage:

If you're not using the cheese right away, proper storage is essential:

• Refrigeration: Keep the cheese refrigerated until you're ready to use it. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying or flavour loss.
• Freezing: If you plan to make mozzarella sticks ahead of time, you can freeze the cheese sticks before breading and frying them. Place them in a single layer on a tray or baking sheet and freeze for at least two hours or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for future use.

Remember, the quality and type of cheese you choose will significantly impact the taste and texture of your Philips Air Fryer mozzarella sticks. Selecting the right cheese and following proper storage practices will ensure your appetizer turns out perfectly crispy and gooey!

Preparing the coating

Mozzarella sticks are a tasty snack that can be prepared and stored in the freezer. You can make your own at home in an air fryer in minutes.

To make the coating, you will need eggs, flour, breadcrumbs, and seasoning.

Firstly, beat the eggs in a shallow dish and set aside. Then, add flour to a large freezer bag or bowl and set aside. Next, pour the breadcrumbs into another shallow dish and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until the crumbs are coated. Now, add your seasoning. For a basic seasoning, you can use garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For extra flavour, add some Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, or almond flour.

Now you have your coating ready, it's time to coat the cheese!

Dipping the cheese

Mozzarella sticks are made by dipping the cheese in egg and then in breadcrumbs. This process is repeated to create a double coating, which is crucial to the success of the recipe. This double layering ensures that the coating doesn't slide off the cheese stick and provides extra crunch.

Firstly, dip the mozzarella stick into a bowl of beaten egg, ensuring it is completely coated. Next, dip the stick into a bowl of breadcrumbs, coating it completely. Transfer the stick to a baking sheet lined with wax paper and repeat this process for the remaining sticks.

After the first round of dipping, place the sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This helps the breading to firm up and ensures the cheese doesn't melt out during cooking.

Once the sticks have been in the freezer for the first time, remove them and repeat the dipping process. Dip them into the egg and then into the breadcrumbs for a second time, ensuring they are completely coated.

After the second round of dipping, place the sticks back in the freezer for another 30 minutes to an hour. This second freezing stage is essential to ensure the cheese doesn't melt out during cooking and helps to create a crispy texture.

Once the second freezing stage is complete, your mozzarella sticks are ready to be cooked in your Philips Air Fryer!

Freezing the sticks

Firstly, prepare the sticks by dipping them in the egg mixture and then the breadcrumb coating. It is recommended to double-coat the sticks for extra crunch and to prevent the coating from sliding off. Place the coated sticks on a baking sheet or tray lined with wax paper, making sure they are not touching.

Next, freeze the sticks for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This duration helps the breading firm up and ensures the cheese is frozen solid. You can also freeze the sticks for longer-term storage, up to 2 to 6 months, by transferring them to a zip-top freezer bag after they are frozen solid.

When you are ready to cook the sticks, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, which can vary between 360°F to 400°F depending on the recipe and air fryer model. Spritz or spray the frozen sticks with oil or cooking spray before placing them in the air fryer. This step ensures a crisp exterior and prevents sticking.

Finally, cook the mozzarella sticks in the air fryer for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the temperature and your desired level of browning. It is important to keep an eye on the sticks as they cook, as the cheese can start to melt and ooze out.

Cooking in the air fryer

Now that you have prepared your mozzarella sticks, it is time to cook them in the air fryer. First, preheat your air fryer to 390°F for about five minutes. You can also preheat to 360°F if you are cooking frozen mozzarella sticks.

Once preheated, spritz the air fryer basket with some cooking spray or olive oil. Then, place your frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

Cook your mozzarella sticks for 5-7 minutes, or 4-6 minutes for frozen sticks, until they are golden brown and crispy. You may want to flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

Once the cheese starts to bubble out, your mozzarella sticks are ready to be removed from the air fryer. Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, BBQ, or buffalo sauce.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the mozzarella sticks back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and the coating is crispy again.

Frequently asked questions