Looking for an easy and delicious keto-friendly appetizer or snack? These keto mozzarella sticks made in the air fryer are the perfect solution! They're quick to make, satisfyingly crunchy on the outside, and wonderfully gooey on the inside. This recipe uses simple substitutions to keep the carbs low without sacrificing flavor.
Why Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks?
Air frying offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried mozzarella sticks. It requires little to no oil, resulting in a crispy texture without the added fat. Plus, it's incredibly convenient and quick, making it ideal for a fast snack or appetizer.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need to create these irresistible keto mozzarella sticks:
- Low-Moisture, Part-Skim Mozzarella String Cheese: This is crucial! Using the right type of cheese prevents a melty mess. Look for brands like Lucerne, Kraft, or Frigo Cheese Heads, and double-check the ingredient list.
- Egg: Used for the egg wash to help the breading adhere to the cheese sticks.
- Almond Flour: A low-carb alternative to traditional flour, forming the base of the breading.
- Pork Rind Panko (or Crushed Pork Rinds): This provides the crispy, crunchy texture you expect from mozzarella sticks. Crush them finely for the best results.
- Parmesan Cheese (Finely Grated): Adds a savory and cheesy flavor to the breading. Use the finely grated kind that resembles a powder, not shredded parmesan.
- Italian Seasoning: A classic blend of herbs that enhances the flavor of the breading. Oregano is a must.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth to the breading.
- Garlic Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Onion Powder: Another flavor booster for the breading.
- Sea Salt: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of color and subtle flavor to the breading.
- Whey Protein Powder (Optional but Recommended): Helps to create a more stable breading and prevent cheese from leaking out.
- Cooking Spray (Olive Oil or Coconut Oil): To grease the air fryer basket and lightly coat the mozzarella sticks for a golden-brown finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make perfect keto air fryer mozzarella sticks:
- Prepare the Cheese Sticks: Cut each mozzarella stick in half to create shorter sticks. This helps them cook more evenly. Place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls.
- Bowl 1: Combine almond flour, garlic powder, garlic salt, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat the egg (or eggs) in the second bowl with cream.
- Bowl 3: Combine crushed pork rind panko, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and parsley in the third bowl.
- Bread the Cheese Sticks:
- Roll each mozzarella stick in the almond flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Dip the cheese stick into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge the cheese stick in the pork rind panko mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the crumbs adhere. For a thicker crust, dip it in the egg and back into the pork rind panko mixture if you need to cover them better.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process a second time for a thicker, more protective crust.
- Freeze the Breaded Cheese Sticks: Place the breaded cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for at least 1-2 hours, or up to overnight. Freezing is crucial for preventing the cheese from melting too quickly in the air fryer. They will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. These keto mozzarella cheese sticks can also be frozen and taken out of the freezer whenever you like.
- Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. If your air fryer has a mesh basket, consider lining it with perforated tin foil, ensuring you poke holes for proper airflow.
- Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Place the frozen cheese sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't touch. Lightly spray the cheese sticks with cooking oil.
- Cook to Perfection: Air fry for 5-8 minutes, or until the mozzarella sticks are golden brown and the cheese is softened but not completely melted. Check them after 5 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed, moving forward.
- Serve Immediately: Air fried mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed immediately while they're hot, crispy, and gooey.
Tips for the Perfect Keto Mozzarella Sticks
- Don't Skip the Freezing Step: Freezing the breaded cheese sticks is essential to prevent the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
- Double Coat for Extra Protection: Double coating the cheese sticks with the breading ensures a thick, protective crust that keeps the cheese inside.
- Use the Right Cheese: Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella string cheese is the key to success.
- Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the mozzarella sticks in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary, so keep a close eye on the mozzarella sticks and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Serve Immediately: Mozzarella sticks are best when served hot and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these keto air fryer mozzarella sticks with your favorite low-carb dipping sauces, such as:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
- Low-Carb Marinara Sauce: Rao's Marinara sauce is a great option. Warm the marinara in a small sauce pot or in a microwave safe bowl just before serving.
- Ranch Dressing: Choose a low-sugar or homemade version.
- Queso: For a cheesy indulgence.
You can also serve them as a side with a salad or other appetizers.
Can I cook mozzarella sticks in a frying pan?
Yes, fry in oil in a medium size frying pan for about 1 minute on each side or until golden.
Can I bake mozzarella sticks in the oven?
You can on a tin foil lined baking sheet for 3-5 minutes, flip and then bake for another 3-5 minutes. You may need to use cooking spray on the foil and the sticks to get that golden crust.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Store leftover mozzarella sticks in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the air fryer for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and should be considered an estimate. The exact values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto