Air Fryer Mozzarella Bites with Marinara
Crispy on the outside, molten on the inside, these air fryer mozzarella bites come together in under 20 minutes. A double-dip coating and a quick freeze ensure every bite stays perfectly sealed, making them the ultimate snack for game day or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 6 pieces string cheese
- 120 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Cut each string cheese into thirds to make 18 equal bites.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, beat eggs and milk until smooth.
- In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with dried parsley.
- Roll each cheese piece in flour, then dip in egg wash.
- Coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating for a double layer.
- Place coated bites on a plate and freeze for at least 5 minutes.
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange frozen bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Spray bites generously with nonstick cooking spray on all sides.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, shaking gently halfway through.
- Serve hot with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Freeze the coated bites for at least 5 minutes to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
- Always double-coat the cheese; a single layer of breadcrumbs won't hold the melting cheese.
- Spray generously with cooking spray for a golden, crispy exterior.
- Arrange bites in a single layer with space between them to ensure even cooking.
- Make ahead: freeze coated bites up to 24 hours, then cook straight from frozen.