Air fryer mozzarella sticks

Molten middles and crunchy crumb, with a freezing step that stops them bursting.

Every failed mozzarella stick is a cheese puddle in the basket. Freezing them solid after breading is not optional: it buys enough time for the crumb to crisp before the cheese lets go.

Ingredients

Serves 4 · tap to check off

• 8 mozzarella sticks, halved
• 60g panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tbsp plain flour
• Oil spray, marinara to serve

Method

1. Bread. Roll each piece in flour, then egg, then panko. Repeat the egg and panko for a double coat.
2. Freeze. Freeze for at least 1 hour, until rock solid. Do not skip this.
3. Spray. Mist with oil on all sides.
4. Air fry. Cook at 390°F for 7 minutes only. Pull them the moment the crumb is golden.