Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks (Print)

Quick, crispy mozzarella sticks cooked to golden perfection with simple air frying.

# Components:

→ Frozen Snacks

01 - 16 frozen mozzarella sticks

→ For Serving (Optional)

02 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
03 - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
02 - Place frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring space between each stick.
03 - Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden and crispy.
04 - Remove immediately and let rest for 1 to 2 minutes before serving.
05 - Serve with warm marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They go from freezer to plate in under 12 minutes, perfect when unexpected guests show up or hunger strikes fast.
  • No mess, no deep frying oil, just a hot basket and the promise of that crispy-then-gooey moment.
  • Even if you're someone who's never cooked before, this genuinely cannot fail.
02 -
  • Do not overcrowd the basket—even if it feels like there's room, there isn't. Air fryers work by circulating hot air, and mozzarella sticks need space to get crispy all around.
  • The cheese will leak if you don't pull them out at exactly the right moment, and while it still tastes good, it's messy and a little sad to look at.
03 -
  • Shaking the basket halfway through is non-negotiable—it's the difference between evenly golden and weirdly pale on one side.
  • If your air fryer tends to cook hot, start checking at 6 minutes so you don't overcook the breading and force the cheese out early.
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