Frozen mozzarella sticks are perfect air fryer fodder — crisp coating, melty middle — but the one risk is the cheese bursting out. The fix is simply not to overcook them. Here's how long they take.
Key takeaways
Q: How long do mozzarella sticks take in an air fryer?
A: Air fry frozen mozzarella sticks at 200°C (400°F) for 6–8 minutes, until golden and crisp. Don't overcook or the cheese leaks.
Q: How do you stop them bursting?
A: Cook straight from frozen, keep to the shorter time, and check from 6 minutes.
Times & temperatures
| Type | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard sticks | 200°C / 400°F | 6–8 min |
| Large / thick | 200°C / 400°F | 8–10 min |
Method
- Straight from frozen — never defrost, or they'll leak.
- Single layer, not touching.
- Air fry at 200°C, checking from 6 minutes.
- Serve quickly while the cheese is stringy.
Building a sharing platter? Add onion rings and sausage rolls, all on the cooking times chart.
Frequently asked questions
How long do frozen mozzarella sticks take in an air fryer?
About 6–8 minutes at 200°C, straight from frozen. Check from 6 minutes so the cheese doesn't burst out.
Why did my mozzarella sticks leak?
They were overcooked or defrosted first. Cook them straight from frozen and pull them as soon as they're golden.
Do you need oil for mozzarella sticks?
No — the coating crisps on its own. A light spritz just adds a little extra colour.