Ingredients
For the coating:
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs
For the cheese:
- 8 low-fat mozzarella sticks
For cooking:
- Avocado oil cooking spray
The egg acts as the binding agent that helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the cheese. Adding a teaspoon of water to the beaten egg makes it easier to coat the mozzarella sticks evenly. You can substitute regular eggs with egg wash or even buttermilk for different flavor profiles.
Whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs provide superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. The larger, flakier texture of panko creates more surface area for crisping. If you can’t find whole-wheat panko, regular panko works fine, or you can make your own by processing day-old bread.
Low-fat mozzarella sticks are recommended because they hold their shape better during cooking. Full-fat versions tend to melt more quickly and may leak out of the coating. String cheese works equally well and often comes in convenient individual portions.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the coating stations
Set up two shallow bowls. In the first bowl, beat the egg with one teaspoon of water until well combined. In the second bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and panko breadcrumbs until evenly distributed.
Step 2: First breading round
Working with one mozzarella stick at a time, dip it completely in the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Then press it firmly into the seasoned breadcrumbs, making sure all surfaces are coated. Place the breaded stick on a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all mozzarella sticks.
Step 3: First freeze
Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step is crucial for setting the first layer of breading and firming up the cheese.
Step 4: Second breading round
Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer and repeat the coating process. Dip each stick back into the egg mixture, then press into the breadcrumbs again. This double coating provides extra protection against cheese leakage.
Step 5: Second freeze
Freeze the double-breaded mozzarella sticks for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. This final freezing step ensures the coating stays intact during air frying.
Step 6: Air fry
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Spray the frozen mozzarella sticks lightly with avocado oil cooking spray. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted inside. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Notes
- Don’t skip the freezing steps; they’re essential to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and breaking through the coating.
- Plan ahead to allow enough time for both freezing periods.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket—leave space between each stick for proper air circulation.
- Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and avoid soggy spots.
- Use cooking spray lightly—just enough to promote browning and crispiness.
- Too much spray can make the coating soggy, while too little may leave them pale.
- Keep an eye on the sticks during the final minute of cooking for cheese leakage.
- A little leakage is normal, but remove them if you see too much to prevent a mess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg