Golden, crispy mozzarella sticks with a crunchy coating, ready in minutes using an air fryer method.
# What You Need:
→ Cheese
01 - 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
→ Breading
02 - 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
03 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
→ Coating
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 2 tablespoons milk
06 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
→ Seasonings (optional)
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ For Serving
11 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
# How to Cook:
01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice each mozzarella stick in half to create 24 shorter sticks, if preferred.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with combined Italian-style and panko breadcrumbs plus optional seasonings.
03 - Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
04 - Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating to ensure extra crispiness and prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
05 - Arrange coated sticks on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour or until solid.
06 - Set air fryer temperature to 390°F (200°C) and allow to preheat.
07 - Place frozen sticks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking oil. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp. The cheese should begin to melt but not ooze.
08 - Serve immediately alongside warmed marinara sauce.
