Save Golden, crispy grilled cheese fingers stuffed with gooey mozzarella, air-fried for a healthier twist on classic mozzarella sticks perfect for dipping and sharing.
I love making these because they satisfy my craving for cheese sticks while being easier and less messy than traditional frying.
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 This recipe has become a family favorite especially on busy weeknights when we want something fast and delicious.
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 These air fryer grilled cheese fingers are a quick snack that everyone loves and easy to customize to your taste.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of bread works best for these cheese fingers?
White sandwich bread is ideal for creating a soft, sturdy base that crisps nicely in the air fryer while holding the cheese securely.
- → Can I substitute mozzarella with other cheeses?
Yes, cheddar or fontina are great alternatives that add different flavors and melt well inside the fingers.
- → How do I ensure the coating sticks well to the cheese fingers?
Dipping fingers first in an egg and milk mixture, then pressing thoroughly into the breadcrumb and Parmesan blend helps create a crunchy, well-adhered crust.
- → What temperature and time should I air fry the fingers?
Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Cook fingers for 4 minutes, flip, then air fry an additional 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- → Are there any tips for extra crispiness?
Spraying the coated fingers lightly with olive oil before air frying can enhance the crunchiness and golden color.
- → Can these fingers be made gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread and gluten-free breadcrumbs to adapt this dish for gluten-free diets.