Mozzarella sticks make a terrific high protein snack! But...conventional ones are high in calories, fat, and sodium. The best ones have a thick batter and are deep fried in oil. And, fried in oil does not equal healthy.

You could hit up your local bar for a fresh batch. Well, a freshly fried batch of frozen sticks... But, why buy prepared when you make your own? Then, you can control the quality and quantity of ingredients!

Mine are air-fried and gluten free.

By using an air fryer...say, goodbye to deep-fried!

First, I recommend toasting the bread crumbs before coating the cheese sticks. I mean- they will still taste delicious. They just won't look as pretty and will become a melty mess while you are waiting for the perfect golden brown coating.

For the breaded coating- simply dip the cheese sticks in a beaten egg. Then, cover with the toasted breadcrumbs. Now, freeze for at least an hour.

Some air fryer mozzarella stick recipes call for you to use store-bought frozen mozzarella sticks. I mean...for sure, use an air fryer, but how is that a recipe worthy of an entire post?!?

• Step one: Add frozen mozzarella sticks to air fryer.
• Step two: Air fry.
• Step three: Dip in marinara sauce and enjoy!

These mozzarella sticks are simple, yet homemade, using string cheese!

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The Secret to Air-Fried Mozzarella Sticks

The secret is out- toasting the breadcrumbs before coating is the secret sauce! This ensures a crispy coating, without creating a cheese puddle! Also, freezing prior to cooking will help too!

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Ingredients in Gluten Free Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

• Mozzarella Sticks
• Egg
• Gluten Free Breadcrumbs
• Butter

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History of Mozzarella Sticks

Believe it or not, mozzarella sticks date back to 1393 in Medieval France. Today's version may look very different, but it's not hard to see why fried cheese has been enjoyed for so long.

The current version of mozzarella sticks became popular in the United States in the 1970s. Thanks to bowling alleys and sports bars, these fried cheese sticks are still popular today. The 1970s also saw an increased availability of mass produced mozzarella cheese and the development of newer, more efficient frying technology, AKA the perfect storm.

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What sauce goes with mozzarella sticks?

Great question! There are a lot of options on the market. The most popular would be...marinara sauce, or course! Less conventional, but also delicious- you could try barbecue, ranch, Buffalo, sweet Thai chili, salsa, honey mustard, Thai peanut, or Sriracha...basically, any sauce!

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Craving more???

Gluten Free Tamale Meatballs

Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip

Gluten Free Pizza Waffles