Save to Pinterest Golden, crispy grilled cheese fingers stuffed with gooey mozzarella, air-fried for a healthier twist on classic mozzarella sticks perfect for dipping and sharing.
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household because it combines the gooeyness of mozzarella sticks with the comfort of grilled cheese in a convenient finger food.
Ingredients
- Bread & Cheese: 8 slices white sandwich bread, 8 slices mozzarella cheese (or 200 g block mozzarella, cut into sticks)
- Coating: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp milk, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional), 1/2 tsp garlic powder, Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Serving: 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3 minutes.
- Step 2:
- Trim crusts off bread slices. Lay out 4 slices, top each with mozzarella (slice or stick), then cover with remaining bread to make sandwiches.
- Step 3:
- Press down firmly and cut each sandwich into three fingers (sticks).
- Step 4:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Step 5:
- In another bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Dip each sandwich finger first in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 7:
- Arrange fingers in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
- Step 8:
- Air fry for 4 minutes, flip, then air fry another 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has brought many family moments around the table, with everyone eager to dip and enjoy the crispy cheesy fingers together.
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and breadcrumbs. Best enjoyed immediately for maximum crispiness.
Required Tools
Air fryer, Bread knife, Shallow bowls (for dipping), Tongs
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread, panko), Milk (cheese, Parmesan), Egg. Marinara sauce may contain additional allergens check labels.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this healthier version of mozzarella sticks as a fun snack or appetizer that everyone will love.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different cheeses for these fingers?
Yes, cheddar or fontina can be used instead of mozzarella for varied flavor profiles.
- → What temperature is best for air frying?
Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook the fingers in two steps for best crispiness.
- → How can I make the fingers extra crunchy?
Lightly spray with olive oil before air frying to enhance crunchiness and golden color.
- → Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular bread and panko with gluten-free alternatives to suit dietary needs.
- → What is a good dipping sauce for these fingers?
Warm marinara sauce pairs beautifully, adding a tomato-based tang that complements the cheesy interior.