If you’re a fan of delicious, cheesy appetizers, then look no further than homemade mozzarella sticks. Create perfectly crispy and gooey air fryer mozzarella sticks without deep frying. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible snack!
Why They Will Be Your Favorite Appetizer
- Fast. Ready in under 30 minutes with the help of your air fryer!
- Easy. Create a breading, coat mozzarella cheese sticks, and air fry until melty and crispy.
- Delicious. Loaded with melted cheese, coated in perfectly crispy Panko bread crumbs, and seasoned with a tasty balance of Italian herbs.
With the help of an air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, homemade mozzarella sticks without deep frying. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a perfect balance between crispy breading and melted cheese. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these irresistible mozzarella sticks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
- All Purpose Flour
- Eggs
- Panko Breadcrumbs
- Italian Seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Cooking Spray
How To Make Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
- Prepare the Breading Station. To begin, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings.
- Prep the Mozzarella Sticks. Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut them in half, creating 16 shorter sticks. This step helps the mozzarella sticks fit better in the air fryer and ensures they cook evenly.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks. Take one mozzarella stick and lightly coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Lastly, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere to the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process with the remaining mozzarella sticks, placing them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400F for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the mozzarella sticks cook evenly and become crispy.
- Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook and Flip. Place the mozzarella sticks in the preheated air fryer and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking or melting. The mozzarella sticks should turn golden brown and the cheese inside should be melted and gooey.
- Serve and Enjoy! Once the mozzarella sticks are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Allow them to cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth. Serve them with your favorite marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any other dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips And Tricks
Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your air fryer mozzarella sticks turn out perfectly:
- Use String Cheese or Mozzarella Sticks. Opt for string cheese or pre-made mozzarella sticks specifically designed for frying. These types of cheese are ideal because they have a higher moisture content, which results in a gooey, melted center when cooked.
- Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks. Before air frying, freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes. Freezing helps the cheese hold its shape during cooking and prevents excessive melting. It also helps the breading adhere better to the cheese.
- Preheat the Air Fryer. Always preheat your air fryer before cooking. This ensures that the mozzarella sticks cook evenly and achieve that desirable crispy texture.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs provide a light and extra crispy coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. If possible, opt for panko breadcrumbs to achieve a crunchier exterior.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to making deliciously crispy and gooey air fryer mozzarella sticks that everyone will enjoy.
Variations
Here are a few variations of air fryer mozzarella sticks that you can try to add some excitement and variety to your snacks:
- Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks - Indulge in a savory treat by wrapping each mozzarella stick with a strip of bacon. Secure the bacon with toothpicks, coat the sticks, and air fry until crispy and delicious. The combination of crispy bacon and melted cheese is irresistible.
- Buffalo Mozzarella Sticks - Give your mozzarella sticks a tangy and spicy twist by tossing them in buffalo sauce. After air frying the sticks, coat them in buffalo sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. It’s a perfect option for those who enjoy a little heat.
- Pepperoni Mozzarella Sticks - Add a twist to the classic mozzarella sticks by wrapping each cheese stick with a slice of pepperoni before coating and air frying. The combination of melted cheese and savory pepperoni adds an extra burst of flavor.
What To Serve With Them
Air fryer mozzarella sticks are a delicious appetizer on their own, but you can enhance the overall experience by serving them with complementary dips and sides. Here are a few ideas for what you can serve with air fryer mozzarella sticks:
- Marinara Sauce - A classic choice, marinara sauce pairs perfectly with mozzarella sticks. Its tangy and savory flavor complements the cheesy filling. You can use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own from scratch.
- Ranch Dressing - The creamy and tangy flavor of ranch dressing adds a nice contrast to the crispy mozzarella sticks. It’s a popular choice for dipping, and you can also consider adding some herbs or spices to the ranch dressing to elevate the flavor.
- Garlic Aioli - A homemade garlic aioli or even a store-bought one can be a fantastic accompaniment. The rich and garlicky flavor of the aioli complements the mozzarella sticks and adds a delicious twist to each bite.
- Sweet Chili Sauce - If you’re looking for a bit of a sweet and spicy flavor, try serving the mozzarella sticks with sweet chili sauce. It provides a unique balance of sweetness, tanginess, and a subtle kick that pairs well with cheesy goodness.
How Long Do They Last?
Air fryer mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed fresh and hot, right after they are cooked. The crispy exterior and gooey cheese filling are at their peak when served immediately. However, if you happen to have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator.
Typically, leftover air fryer mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes, you can freeze air fryer mozzarella sticks if you have leftovers or want to make a batch in advance for future use. Freezing them is a great option to extend their shelf life and enjoy them later.
Allow the mozzarella sticks to cool completely after cooking. Once cooled, place the mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure they are not touching each other, as this will prevent them from sticking together during freezing.
Place the baking sheet with the mozzarella sticks in the freezer and let them freeze for about 2-3 hours or until they are firm and solid.
Once the mozzarella sticks are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Return the mozzarella sticks to the freezer and store them for up to 2-3 months.
More Amazing Air Fryer Appetizers
- Crab Rangoon
- Keto Chips
- Keto Buffalo Cauliflower
- Queso Fundido
- Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks | Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- ▢ 1 cup All Purpose Flour
- ▢ 2 Eggs
- ▢ 1 cup Bread Crumbs
- ▢ 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Paprika
- ▢ Cooking Spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Station. To begin, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings.
- Prep the Mozzarella Sticks. Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut them in half, creating 16 shorter sticks. This step helps the mozzarella sticks fit better in the air fryer and ensures they cook evenly.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks. Take one mozzarella stick and lightly coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Lastly, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process with the remaining mozzarella sticks, placing them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the mozzarella sticks cook evenly and become crispy.
- Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook and Flip. Place the mozzarella sticks in the preheated air fryer and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking or melting. The mozzarella sticks should turn golden brown and the cheese inside should be melted and gooey.
- Serve and Enjoy! Once the mozzarella sticks are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Allow them to cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth. Serve them with your favorite marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any other dipping sauce of your choice.
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Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks | Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup All Purpose Flour
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup Bread Crumbs
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- Cooking Spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Station. To begin, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings.
- Prep the Mozzarella Sticks. Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and cut them in half, creating 16 shorter sticks. This step helps the mozzarella sticks fit better in the air fryer and ensures they cook evenly.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks. Take one mozzarella stick and lightly coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Lastly, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs. Repeat this process with the remaining mozzarella sticks, placing them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the mozzarella sticks cook evenly and become crispy.
- Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook and Flip. Place the mozzarella sticks in the preheated air fryer and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking or melting. The mozzarella sticks should turn golden brown and the cheese inside should be melted and gooey.
- Serve and Enjoy! Once the mozzarella sticks are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Allow them to cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth. Serve them with your favorite marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any other dipping sauce of your choice.
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks | Homemade Mozzarella Sticks Recipe https://twosleevers.com/air-fryer-mozzarella-sticks/
Indulge in the succulent and rich flavors of homemade lamb burgers, a delightful alternative to traditional beef burgers. Bursting with juicy goodness and a hint of earthy sweetness, these burgers are sure to elevate dinnertime.
Why You’ll Love This Twist On Burgers
- Fast.
- Easy.
- Flavorful.
With their robust flavors and juicy texture, homemade lamb burgers are a true delight for burger enthusiasts. By following our step-by-step guide and adding your own personal touch, you’ll be able to create a memorable dining experience right in your own backyard or kitchen.
Is Lamb Meat Good For Burgers?
Yes, lamb meat is excellent for burgers and provides a unique and delicious alternative to beef. Lamb offers a distinct flavor profile that is often described as earthy, slightly sweet, and rich. When used in burgers, it adds a new level of complexity and juiciness to the dish.
How Do You Keep Lamb Burgers From Falling Apart?
Lamb burgers can be more delicate compared to beef burgers due to the higher fat content and softer texture of lamb meat. To help keep them from falling apart, here are some tips:
- Handle Gently . When shaping the lamb patties, handle the mixture gently to avoid overworking the meat. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture and potentially cause the burgers to fall apart. Use a light touch to shape the patties without compacting the meat too tightly.
- Preheat the skillet . Ensure that your skillet is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the lamb burgers on the cooking surface. This helps sear the burgers quickly, forming a crust that aids in holding them together.
- Avoid Excessive Flipping . Resist the temptation to flip the burgers too frequently. Flipping them once or twice during cooking is sufficient. Constant flipping can disturb the burger’s structure and increase the chances of it falling apart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground Lamb
- Onion
- Garlic
- Rosemary
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Paprika
- Salt and Pepper
How To Make Lamb Burgers
- Prepare the Lamb Patties . In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can result in dense burgers.
- Shape the Patties. Divide the lamb mixture into equal portions, depending on the desired size of your burgers. Shape each portion into a patty, using your hands to form them into round discs of even thickness. Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
- Preheat the Skillet . Preheat a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Make sure the cooking surface is well-oiled to prevent the lamb patties from sticking.
- Pan-Sear the Patties . Place the lamb patties on the preheated skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches 145F. Adjust the cooking time according to your preference for doneness.
- Toast the Burger Buns . While the patties are cooking, you can toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until lightly golden. Toasting adds a nice crunch and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy when topped with condiments.
- Assemble the Lamb Burgers . Remove the cooked lamb patties from the grill or skillet and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the burgers moist. Assemble the burgers by placing the patties on the toasted buns and adding your desired toppings.
- Serve and Enjoy! Now, it’s time to savor the mouthwatering delight of homemade lamb burgers. Sink your teeth into the juicy patty with its tantalizing blend of flavors.
Tips And Tricks
- Fat Content - Lamb naturally has a higher fat content compared to beef, which contributes to its juicy flavor. If desired, you can mix in some ground beef or pork with the lamb to reduce the fat content and add variety.
- Seasoning - Experiment with additional herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile of your lamb burgers. Consider adding fresh mint, oregano, or ground cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Doneness - Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the patties and your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches your desired level, whether it’s medium-rare, medium, or well-done.
Variations
Lamb burgers offer a canvas for culinary creativity, allowing you to explore various flavors and ingredients to create unique and delicious variations. Here are some exciting variations to consider when making them:
- Mediterranean Lamb Burgers - Infuse your burgers with Mediterranean flair by adding ingredients like crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. These flavors will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece.
- Indian Spiced Lamb Burgers - Infuse the burgers with Indian flavors by combining ground lamb with spices like garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, minced ginger, and chopped cilantro. Top the burgers with a yogurt-based raita sauce and enjoy them with naan bread or in a bun.
- Jalapeño and Cheese Lamb Burgers - Add a spicy kick to your burgers by mixing in finely chopped jalapeños or even some diced pickled jalapeños to the lamb mixture. Incorporate your favorite cheese into the patties for an extra ooey-gooey surprise when bitten into.
What Sauce Goes With Lamb Burgers?
Personalize your lamb burgers with a variety of toppings and condiments. Feel free to explore options such as tzatziki sauce, feta cheese, grilled peppers, or a tangy yogurt-based dressing.
Side Dishes To Enjoy
When it comes to side dishes to accompany lamb burgers, there are various options that can complement the rich and flavorful nature of the meat. Here are some delicious side dishes that pair well with them:
- Greek Salad - A classic Greek salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese is a refreshing and vibrant choice. The tangy flavors and Mediterranean ingredients harmonize beautifully with the lamb.
- Roasted Vegetables - Roast a medley of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, herbs like rosemary or thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The caramelized flavors of the roasted vegetables complement the richness of the lamb burgers.
- Minted Couscous - Prepare a fluffy and fragrant couscous dish flavored with fresh mint, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil. The light and aromatic couscous provide a delicate balance to the hearty burgers.
How Long Do They Last?
If you have cooked lamb burgers that you’d like to save for later, store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Properly stored, lamb burgers can be refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can You Freeze Them?
If you want to extend the shelf life of your lamb burgers, you can freeze them. Wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap or place them in separate freezer bags. Properly frozen, they can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen lamb burgers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat the burgers in a preheated oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them on a grill or stovetop in a skillet over medium heat.
More Lamb Recipes
- Instant Pot Lamb Biryani
- Lamb Rogan Josh
- Air Fried Lamb
- Loin Lamb Chops
Lamb Burgers | Ground Lamb Burger Recipe
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 pound ground lamb
- ▢ 1/2 cup onion
- ▢ 2 cloves minced garlic
- ▢ 1 tsp rosemary
- ▢ 1 tsp cumin
- ▢ 1/2 tsp coriander
- ▢ 1/2 tsp paprika
- ▢ 1 tsp salt
- ▢ 1/2 tsp black pepper
- ▢ 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb Patties . In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can result in dense burgers.
- Shape the Patties. Divide the lamb mixture into equal portions, depending on the desired size of your burgers. Shape each portion into a patty, using your hands to form them into round discs of even thickness. Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.
- Preheat the Skillet . Preheat a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Make sure the cooking surface is well-oiled to prevent the lamb patties from sticking.
- Pan-Sear the Patties . Place the lamb patties on the preheated skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches 145F. Adjust the cooking time according to your preference for doneness.
- Toast the Burger Buns . While the patties are cooking, you can toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until lightly golden. Toasting adds a nice crunch and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy when topped with condiments.
- Assemble the Lamb Burgers . Remove the cooked lamb patties from the grill or skillet and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the burgers moist. Assemble the burgers by placing the patties on the toasted buns and adding your desired toppings.
- Serve and Enjoy! Now, it’s time to savor the mouthwatering delight of homemade lamb burgers. Sink your teeth into the juicy patty with its tantalizing blend of flavors.
Get support & connect with our community on Facebook!
Nutrition
And don’t forget to check out my air fryer cookbooks! Every day easy air fryer , and Air Fryer Revolution .
