Save to Pinterest There's something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy mozzarella stick, especially when it's oozing with warm, melted cheese inside. These air fryer mozzarella sticks deliver that crave-worthy crunch without the mess of deep frying, ready in just minutes from freezer to plate. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering, need a quick after-school snack, or simply craving that golden, cheesy goodness, this recipe transforms frozen mozzarella sticks into restaurant-quality appetizers with minimal effort.
Save to Pinterest The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around each mozzarella stick, creating that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the cheese inside beautifully melted and gooey. No need to heat up oil or deal with the mess of traditional frying—simply arrange, cook, and enjoy. The key is giving them enough space in the basket and shaking halfway through for even browning on all sides.
Ingredients
Frozen Snacks
- 16 frozen mozzarella sticks
For Serving (Optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange Mozzarella Sticks
- Arrange the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each stick.
- Air Fry
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Cool Slightly
- Remove immediately and let cool for 1–2 minutes before serving.
- Serve
- Serve with warm marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Do not overcrowd the air fryer to ensure even cooking. For extra crunch, lightly spray mozzarella sticks with oil before air frying. Best enjoyed immediately; reheating may cause cheese to leak out. Try with ranch or garlic aioli as alternative dips.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or garlic powder over the sticks before air frying. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy marinara, or even a creamy spinach artichoke dip. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook in batches rather than overcrowding to maintain that perfect crunch.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these golden mozzarella sticks immediately while they're at their crispiest. Arrange them on a platter with small bowls of warm marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. They're perfect alongside other appetizers like wings, potato skins, or as part of a game day spread.
Save to Pinterest These air fryer mozzarella sticks prove that sometimes the simplest appetizers are the most satisfying. With just one main ingredient and less than 15 minutes from start to finish, they're destined to become your go-to snack for everything from casual weeknight treats to impromptu gatherings. The combination of that satisfying crunch and warm, melted cheese center is simply irresistible—especially when dipped into a bowl of your favorite sauce.
Ask About This Recipe
- → How long should mozzarella sticks be cooked in an air fryer?
Cooking time ranges between 6 to 8 minutes at 390°F (200°C), shaking halfway for even crispness.
- → Can frozen mozzarella sticks be cooked without thawing first?
Yes, these sticks can be cooked directly from frozen which helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese leakage.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with mozzarella sticks?
Warm marinara sauce is classic, but ranch or garlic aioli also enhance the flavor beautifully.
- → How to ensure mozzarella sticks are crispy after cooking?
Arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding and shake basket halfway through cooking to promote even crisping.
- → Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating for 3 minutes at 390°F helps achieve the ideal crispy texture on the outside.