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

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks made in the air fryer, served with a fresh homemade marinara sauce. Perfect for a fuss-free snack or game night treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 frozen mozzarella sticks (preferably Galbani)
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1 cup (100g) Italian-style breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
  • ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (avocado oil spray recommended)
  • For the marinara sauce:
  • 1 cup (240ml) canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the breading stations: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture (combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper).
  2. Coat the mozzarella sticks: One at a time, roll each stick in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double layer.
  3. Freeze the coated sticks: Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet or plate and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between them. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
  6. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Watch closely during the last minutes to avoid over-browning.
  7. Make the marinara sauce while sticks cook: Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in crushed tomatoes, add chopped basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Serve immediately: Transfer mozzarella sticks to a plate and serve alongside the warm marinara sauce.

Notes

Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes before air frying to prevent cheese leakage. Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs creates an extra crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Use cooking spray for a golden finish without extra oil. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to regain crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent chewy crusts.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella sticks, air fryer, crispy snack, homemade marinara, easy appetizer, cheesy snack, game night food

Find it online: https://emmastirs.com/crispy-air-fryer-mozzarella-sticks-recipe-easy-homemade-snack-with-marinara-sauce/