Ingredients:
- 12 pieces low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella string cheese
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil spray
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Station Setup: Organize three shallow bowls in a row. Put the 0.5 cup all purpose flour in the first. In the second, whisk the 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon water. In the third, combine 1 cup panko, 0.5 cup Italian breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika.
- Initial Coating: Unwrap your 12 mozzarella sticks. Roll each stick in the flour until fully white and dusty, then shake off any excess. Note: Flour creates the grip for the egg.
- The First Dip: Submerge the floured stick in the egg wash, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly so the crumbs adhere.
- The Double Seal: Dip the breaded stick back into the egg wash once more, then roll it in the crumbs a second time. Repeat for all 12 sticks to ensure a thick, reinforced shell.
- Flash Freeze: Place the breaded sticks on a parchment lined tray. Freeze for a minimum of 2 hours. Do not skip this or the cheese will melt before the crust is done.
- Preheat and Prep: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the frozen sticks with a 1 tablespoon olive oil spray until they look slightly moist.
- The Fry: Place sticks in the basket in a single layer. Do not let them touch! Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping them gently halfway through.
- Final Check: Watch for the first sign of a cheese bead escaping. Once they are golden brown and sizzling, they are done.
- Garnish: Remove from the fryer and immediately sprinkle with 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Let them rest for 1 minute so you don't burn your mouth, then serve with 1 cup warmed marinara sauce.