Intro: A Busy Cook’s Delight
As a busy home cook, I know how precious time can be, especially when you’re trying to whip up something delicious for family or friends. That’s why these air fryer mozzarella sticks are a game-changer: they’re quick to make, mess-free, and oh-so-satisfying!
Ingredients You Will Need
To make these easy air fryer mozzarella sticks, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Set up a breading station: in one bowl, place flour; in a second bowl, whisk the eggs; and in a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
- Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip it into the eggs, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
- Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
- Lightly spray the sticks with cooking spray. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help keep them from oozing out.
- Keep your air fryer basket clean by using parchment air fryer liners.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray, as it helps achieve a crispy texture.
Nutritional Breakdown
Each serving (3 mozzarella sticks) contains approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 12g
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the freezing step can lead to messy results.
- Not preheating your air fryer results in uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the basket prevents proper crisping.
Pro Tip for Easy Clean-Up
Use parchment air fryer liners to make cleaning a breeze! Simply place a liner in the basket before cooking, and once you’re finished, you can easily remove any crumbs or residue left behind.
