Air Fryer Wonton Mozzarella Sticks are a fun twist on a classic snack that everyone loves. Crispy wonton wrappers hold gooey, melted mozzarella cheese inside, giving you that perfect crunch on the outside and stretchy cheese on the inside. Cooking them in the air fryer makes them extra crispy without the mess of deep frying.
I love making these whenever I want a quick appetizer or a tasty snack to share with friends. The best part is how easy they are to put together, and the air fryer does most of the work for you. I usually dip them in marinara sauce or ranch dressing, which makes each bite even better. Plus, they’re so addictive, I always end up making a double batch!
These mozz sticks are perfect for game nights, movie nights, or just when you’re craving something cheesy and crunchy. I always have a box of wonton wrappers on hand just for moments like this. It’s a simple way to make a crowd-pleasing treat that doesn’t take much time or effort, and everyone always asks for the recipe afterward!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are the star for that crispy, flaky shell. If you don’t have wonton wrappers, spring roll wrappers or even thin phyllo dough can work. Just watch the cooking time as they might crisp faster.
Mozzarella Cheese: String cheese is perfect because it’s pre-cut and melts beautifully. You can use fresh mozzarella sticks or cut a block of mozzarella into sticks, but avoid low-moisture cheese as it won’t melt as well.
Seasoning Mix: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan add great flavor. Feel free to swap Italian seasoning for dried oregano or basil based on what you have. Parmesan can be left out if you want, but it really boosts the taste.
Egg Wash: This helps seal the wontons tightly so the cheese doesn’t leak. If you’re vegan or allergic, try a mixture of water and flour or a thin slurry of aquafaba (chickpea water) as a plant-based alternative.
How Do You Make Sure the Cheese Doesn’t Leak While Air Frying?
Preventing cheese from oozing out is key for these mozz sticks. Here’s how to seal them properly and get that perfect crispy exterior:
- Use a good egg wash: Brush the edges generously to act as a glue for the wonton wrapper.
- Press edges firmly: Seal the wrapper corners tightly by pressing with your fingers or a fork. Don’t rush – a solid seal keeps the cheese in.
- Roll gently: When wrapping around the cheese stick, do it gently but snugly to avoid air pockets where cheese can escape.
- Spray with oil evenly: This helps crisp up the wrapper without burning it quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space between each stick so hot air can circulate and cook them evenly.
Following these tips means your mozzarella sticks come out browned and crispy with molten cheese inside. Let them cool briefly before digging in to avoid burns from hot cheese.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love how it crisps the wontons evenly without much oil.
- Small mixing bowls – for whisking the egg and seasoning mixture, making prep easier.
- Pastry brush – helps you easily seal the edges with egg wash for a tight wrap.
- Cutting board and knife – to cut mozzarella into sticks if using a block.
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray – for giving the wontons that golden crunch.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use pepper Jack or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
- Add chopped herbs like basil or parsley into the seasoning mix for fresh flavor.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a side of ranch or garlic aioli instead of marinara for dipping variations.
Air Fryer Wonton Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Wonton Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or mozzarella cheese cut into sticks)
- 1 small egg
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Marinara sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and just 6-8 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Overall, you can have crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks ready to enjoy in under 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cheese and Wontons:
Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick in half to create 24 smaller sticks. Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place one piece of mozzarella diagonally across the center of the wrapper.
2. Seal the Wontons:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash. Brush the edges of the wonton wrapper with the egg wash. Fold one corner over to the opposite corner to form a triangle, then carefully roll the wrapper around the cheese stick, pressing the edges tightly and sealing any open spots with more egg wash. This will keep the cheese from leaking out while cooking.
3. Season and Air Fry:
Mix the garlic powder, salt, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Lightly spray the wrapped cheese sticks all over with cooking spray, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on each one. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Arrange the wonton-wrapped cheese sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy snack!
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella Sticks for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mozzarella sticks, but make sure to thaw them fully before wrapping in wonton wrappers. This helps prevent excess moisture and ensures even cooking in the air fryer.
Can I Prep These Wontons Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the wonton mozzarella sticks and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them uncovered for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry them a bit longer (around 10-12 minutes) without thawing.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
What Can I Use Instead of Wonton Wrappers?
If you don’t have wonton wrappers, try using spring roll wrappers or phyllo dough sheets. Just watch the cooking time closely as they may brown faster.