Step 1

Place mozzarella sticks in a zip-top bag and freeze until frozen, at least 1 hour.

Step 2

Set out three small shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place flour, salt, and pepper; mix lightly.

Step 3

In the second bowl, add 1 egg and beat lightly.

Step 4

In the third bowl, combine Panko, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

Step 5

One at a time, coat mozzarella pieces in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat with the Panko mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere.

Step 6

Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze again for 30 minutes.

Step 7

RESERVE bread crumbs. In a small shallow bowl, beat the second egg.

Step 8

Remove mozzarella sticks from freezer and dip in egg and then coat again in bread crumb mixture.

Step 9

Return to freezer for 30 more minutes (see note).

Step 10

Heat air fryer to 400ºF. Place breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer and spray with olive oil spray. (You’ll need to do them in batches - don’t stack them up or crowd the basket!)

Step 11

Air fry to 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.