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Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe Easy Homemade Snack with Marinara Sauce

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These crispy air fryer mozzarella sticks are a quick and easy snack with a golden crunchy exterior and gooey melty inside, served with a flavorful homemade marinara sauce.

Ingredients

  • Mozzarella cheese sticks (regular full-size, about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick)
  • All-purpose flour (for coating)
  • Large eggs (beaten)
  • Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Marinara sauce (jarred or homemade, enhanced with fresh garlic, red pepper flakes, and basil)
  • Olive oil (for warming sauce and optional spray)

Instructions

  1. Cut mozzarella into sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick if not pre-cut. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. (5 minutes)
  2. Set up breading stations: flour in first bowl, beaten eggs in second, and breadcrumb mixture (breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, pepper) in third. (5 minutes)
  3. Coat each mozzarella stick by dredging in flour, dipping in egg wash, then rolling in breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb step a second time for extra crunch. (10 minutes)
  4. Place coated sticks on parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours). (30-120 minutes)
  5. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. (5 minutes)
  6. Place sticks in a single layer in air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deep golden brown. (6-8 minutes)
  7. While sticks cook, warm marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat with a splash of olive oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally. (5 minutes)
  8. Serve mozzarella sticks immediately on a plate lined with paper towels alongside warmed marinara sauce.

Notes

Freeze breaded sticks for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from leaking. Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs ensures a thick, crispy crust. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking. Optionally spray sticks lightly with oil for extra golden color. Warm marinara sauce with fresh garlic and red pepper flakes for enhanced flavor. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer, crispy snack, homemade, marinara sauce, easy recipe, party food, quick snack

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