Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Balls Recipe
Delight in crispy, golden-brown mozzarella balls made effortlessly in the air fryer. These bite-sized snacks have a deliciously cheesy center coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, perfect for serving with marinara or ranch dipping sauces. Quick to prepare and ready in under 40 minutes, they make an ideal appetizer or party treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 36 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 mozzarella balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella
- 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (string cheese or mozzarella pearls recommended)
For the Breading
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (combination of plain and seasoned)
- 1 large Egg, whisked
- 1/4 cup Flour (for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
Optional Dipping Sauces
- 1 cup Marinara Sauce
- 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut the mozzarella block into bite-sized cubes, or use string cheese pieces as an alternative. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to handle during breading.
- Set Up Breading Station: On your workspace, arrange three shallow bowls or plates: one with flour, one with the whisked egg, and one with the breadcrumb mixture combined with salt and pepper. This setup helps facilitate an efficient breading process.
- Bread the Mozzarella Balls: Take each cheese piece and lightly dust it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the whisked egg ensuring full coverage, before finally rolling it in the seasoned breadcrumb mix to coat thoroughly. This triple-layer helps achieve the crispy crust.
- Chill Before Cooking: Place the breaded mozzarella balls on a tray or plate and chill them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to help the coating adhere better and prevent cheese leakage during air frying.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat, ensuring even cooking and optimum crispness.
- Air Fry the Mozzarella Balls: Arrange the chilled mozzarella balls in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning and crisp texture.
- Serve: Carefully remove the crispy mozzarella balls and serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces such as marinara or ranch dressing for the perfect cheesy snack.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double coat the mozzarella balls by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and avoid sogginess.
- If mozzarella starts to ooze, chill the balls longer before cooking to help them hold shape.
- Breadcrumbs can be plain, seasoned, or a mix depending on flavor preference.
- Allow the mozzarella balls to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from hot cheese.
