Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Mozzarella sticks are one of those snacks that just hits the spot — crispy on the outside, melty in the middle, and made to be dipped in warm marinara.
This Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe gives you all that cheesy satisfaction, but without the fryer or the mystery ingredients. These sticks are rolled in seasoned breadcrumbs, air-fried to golden perfection, and made with simple, real food — perfect for after-school snacks, game night, or when you just need something cozy.
It’s fast food comfort — cleaned up and crisped up in your air fryer.
Ingredients:
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8 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
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2 eggs, beaten
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½ cup almond flour or oat flour
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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Pinch of sea salt
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Olive oil spray
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Optional: warm marinara or yogurt ranch for dipping
Instructions:
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Freeze the cheese
Cut each mozzarella stick in half and freeze on a tray for at least 1 hour (this keeps them from melting too fast in the air fryer). -
Prep the coating stations
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Bowl 1: almond flour
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Bowl 2: beaten eggs
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Bowl 3: panko + garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt
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Bread the sticks
Roll each frozen cheese stick in flour, then dip in egg, then coat in seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg + breadcrumb step once more. -
Air fry
Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Spray basket lightly with olive oil. Place sticks in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Air fry for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and just starting to ooze. -
Serve hot
Dip in warm marinara or your favorite clean dipping sauce and enjoy immediately!
Sarah’s Tips:
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Double coat = extra crunch: Don’t skip the second breadcrumb layer!
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Dairy-free option: Use plant-based mozzarella sticks (look for meltable brands).
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Make ahead: Bread the sticks, freeze, and store in a bag — then air fry straight from frozen anytime!
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Want them baked? Bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Flavorful Conclusion:
These Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are the kind of snack that makes clean eating feel indulgent. Crispy, cheesy, and super satisfying — they're a healthier take on a fast food favorite the whole family will devour.
Nutrition (per 4 pieces, serves 4):
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Calories: 260
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Protein: 15g
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Carbs: 14g
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Fat: 16g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 1g
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