Air-Fried Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients:

12 mozzarella cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornmeal
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Instructions:

Prep the Cheese:
Freeze the mozzarella sticks for about 30 minutes to firm them up.

Set Up Breading Stations:
In one bowl, place flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix cornmeal, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and more salt and pepper.

Bread the Cheese:
Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, dip into the egg, and then roll in the cornmeal-breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.

Air-Fry:
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded sticks in a single layer, spraying lightly with cooking spray. Air-fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

Serve:
Transfer to kitchen paper to drain excess oil. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks