Air Fryer Cheese Sticks
Golden, crispy on the outside and irresistibly melty on the inside, these air fryer cheese sticks are the ultimate comfort snack made lighter and easier. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a warm, stretchy mozzarella center—no deep frying required. Perfect for game days, parties, or a quick savory craving, they come together with simple pantry ingredients and cook in minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels indulgent but effortless.
Fun Facts:
Mozzarella is the best cheese for sticks because it melts smoothly without releasing too much oil.
Freezing the cheese before cooking helps keep it gooey inside while the outside turns perfectly crispy.
Air fryer cheese sticks use up to 75% less oil than traditional deep-fried versions.
Double breading isn’t just extra—it’s the secret to that dramatic cheese pull.
Cheese sticks are inspired by Italian mozzarella in carrozza, a classic fried cheese dish.
Why We Love This Recipe:
It delivers that classic crispy-outside, melty-inside cheese stick experience without deep frying. The air fryer makes it quick, easy, and much less messy than traditional methods. Simple pantry ingredients turn into a restaurant-style appetizer at home. Freezing and double breading guarantee a perfect cheese pull every time. It’s versatile—easy to customize with different seasonings, cheeses, or dipping sauces. Perfect for parties, snacks, or last-minute cravings when you want something comforting and fun.
AIR FRYER CHEESE STICKS
Comfort Food
Servings: Makes 4 servings (about 8–10 cheese sticks)
Prep Time: 15 minutes active prep
Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 50 minutes (including freezing)
Ingredients:
8–10 mozzarella string cheese sticks
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko = extra crispy)
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp pepper
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions:
Set up breading station
Bowl 1: flour
Bowl 2: eggs, beaten
Bowl 3: breadcrumbs + garlic salt, onion powder, paprika and pepper.
Bread the cheese sticks
Roll in flour
Dip in egg
Coat in breadcrumbs
For extra crunch: dip again in egg + breadcrumbs
Place in the freezer for 1 hour (this is key to prevent melting)
Air fry
Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C)
Lightly spray basket and cheese sticks
Air fry for 5–7 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp
Serve immediately! Enjoy hot and melty!
Serving Tips:
Pair with warm marinara sauce for a classic combo.
Add variety with dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or spicy salsa.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for a polished, restaurant-style look.
Serve as an appetizer, snack, or side alongside burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
