Print

Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe with Easy Savory Marinara Dip

crispy air fryer mozzarella sticks - featured image
Print Recipe

Crispy golden mozzarella sticks with a gooey cheese center, air-fried to perfection and served with a homemade savory marinara dip. A quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing snack perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (low-moisture, about 1 oz each)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (150g)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray
  • For the marinara dip:
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz / 400g)
  • 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prep your breading station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and mix the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in the third.
  2. Coat the mozzarella sticks: Dust each stick lightly in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then roll generously in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more for a double coating.
  3. Freeze the breaded sticks on a parchment-lined tray for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them. Spray lightly with olive oil spray.
  5. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
  6. Make the marinara dip: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, torn basil leaves, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Serve the crispy mozzarella sticks immediately with a bowl of warm marinara dip.

Notes

Double coating the mozzarella sticks and freezing them before air frying is crucial to prevent cheese leakage. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping. The marinara dip can be made ahead and tastes better after resting. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. If no air fryer is available, bake in a convection oven at 425°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer, crispy, snack, marinara dip, easy recipe, cheesy, appetizer

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/crispy-air-fryer-mozzarella-sticks-recipe-with-easy-savory-marinara-dip/