Name: Air Fryer Mozzarella Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 52 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon water; 1 cup Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Cooking spray or oil for air fryer; Optional: marinara sauce for dipping

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Mozzarella Bites Recipe

Crispy outside and gooey, melty cheese inside — all thanks to the air fryer’s hot circulating air.
Uses simple, everyday pantry ingredients and takes under 30 minutes (plus freezing time).
Makes a crowd‑pleasing snack or appetizer — ideal for parties or casual get‑togethers.
You can prep ahead and freeze extra bites, then cook on demand for a quick snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 (16‑ounce) block mozzarella cheese, whole‑milk or part‑skim
¼ cup all‑purpose flour
1 large egg (plus another if needed)
½ cup regular Italian‑seasoned bread crumbs
½ cup Italian‑seasoned panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
¼ teaspoon pepper
Oil spray or cooking spray

Directions

Cut the block of mozzarella into 16 equal‑sized pieces.
In one shallow bowl, mix the flour with ¼ teaspoon salt. In a second bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, combine the regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, the remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and pepper.
Dredge each mozzarella piece first in the flour mixture (covering all sides), then dip into the beaten egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick to all sides.
Place the breaded pieces on a parchment‑lined tray or baking sheet, spread out so they do not touch. Freeze for at least 2 hours (or until fully frozen).
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Place as many frozen mozzarella bites as will fit in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd; you may need batches). Lightly spray the tops with oil. Air fry for 3–4 minutes until the tops are golden and crisp.
Remove the basket, carefully turn the bites over, lightly spray the other side with oil, return to the fryer and cook another 3–4 minutes until both sides are golden and crisp.
Let them cool for a minute or two before serving — this helps them firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve immediately, ideally with warm pizza sauce or marinara for dipping.

Servings and timing

Yields about 16 mozzarella bites
Prep time: approximately 15 minutes
Freezing time: at least 2 hours
Cook time: 6–8 minutes per batch
Total time: about 2 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a flavor boost.
Substitute block mozzarella with low‑moisture string cheese (cut into small sections).
Double coat the bites for extra crunch by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
Cut the mozzarella into longer strips for a mozzarella stick version — just adjust cook time.

Storage/Reheating

Uncooked, breaded mozzarella bites can be frozen in advance and stored in a freezer-safe bag for weeks.
Cooked bites are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to regain crispiness.

FAQs

What type of mozzarella should I use?

Use a block of low-moisture whole milk or part-skim mozzarella. Avoid fresh mozzarella as it contains too much moisture and may leak.

Can I use string cheese or pre‑cut mozzarella sticks?

Yes, string cheese can be cut into bite-sized pieces and used, though block cheese tends to hold up better during breading and frying.

Is freezing before air frying necessary?

Yes. Freezing prevents the cheese from melting out before the coating gets crispy and ensures even cooking.

Why mix regular breadcrumbs with panko?

Regular breadcrumbs adhere well, while panko adds crunch. Using both creates a flavorful, crispy shell.

Do I have to use oil spray?

Oil spray helps achieve a golden crust. Without it, the bites may not brown properly or get as crisp.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

You can bake them, but the texture may be softer and less crisp than with air frying.

How many bites can I cook at once?

Only air fry in a single layer without overlapping for best results. You may need to work in batches depending on your air fryer’s size.

Can I prep them ahead for a party?

Absolutely. Bread and freeze the bites in advance, then cook straight from frozen whenever you’re ready.

What sauces pair well with mozzarella bites?

Classic options include marinara or pizza sauce. Ranch, pesto, and garlic aioli also work well.

How can I keep cheese from leaking out?

Make sure the bites are fully coated and press the breadcrumbs firmly. Freezing thoroughly before cooking also helps seal them.

Conclusion

These air fryer mozzarella bites are the perfect snack for any occasion — cheesy, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep and ingredients, you’ll have a crowd‑pleasing appetizer that’s great for parties, game days, or casual movie nights. Make a batch, freeze some for later, and enjoy cheesy goodness on demand.