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 is a go-to snack in my house, especially when I want something quick but satisfying. The air fryer makes them crispy without excess oil.
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
- Preheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 200℃ (390℉) for 3 minutes.
- Prepare Sandwiches:
- Trim crusts off bread slices. Lay out 4 slices, top each with mozzarella (slice or stick), then cover with remaining bread to make sandwiches.
- Cut Fingers:
- Press down firmly and cut each sandwich into three fingers (sticks).
- Egg Mixture:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Breadcrumb Mixture:
- In another bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat Fingers:
- Dip each sandwich finger first in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange:
- Arrange fingers in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
- Air Fry:
- Air fry for 4 minutes, flip, then air fry another 3 4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings smiles at family gatherings, especially when everyone dips their crispy fingers into the warm marinara sauce 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. Always verify ingredient labels for allergens if unsure.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is a fast, delicious finger food that’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for these fingers?
Mozzarella provides a great melt, but cheddar or fontina can be used for different flavors.
- → Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular bread and panko with gluten-free versions to suit dietary needs.
- → How do I ensure crispy breading when air-frying?
Lightly spray the coated fingers with olive oil before air frying to enhance crunchiness.
- → What temperature and time are ideal for air frying?
Preheat to 200°C (390°F) and air fry for about 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- → What’s the best dipping sauce pairing?
Warmed marinara sauce complements the crispy, cheesy fingers perfectly with its tangy flavor.