Air Fryer Wonton Mozzarella Sticks are a fun and crispy twist on the classic snack we all love. These sticks have gooey mozzarella cheese wrapped up in thin, crunchy wonton wrappers, then cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer. They’re super easy to make and have that perfect combo of melty cheese inside and crispy outside.
I absolutely love making these when I want a quick snack or something tasty to share with friends. The best part is how fast they cook in the air fryer, which makes cleanup a breeze. I usually pair them with a simple marinara sauce for dipping—that little bit of tangy tomato sauce makes them even better!
Whenever I make these, they disappear so quickly. My family always asks for seconds, and I think it’s because the crunchy wonton wrapper is such a great change from the usual breaded mozzarella sticks. If you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic favorite, these wonton mozzarella sticks are definitely worth trying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These give the sticks a super crispy texture and are thinner than regular dough. If you can’t find them, spring roll wrappers can work fine, but they might crisp a bit differently.
Mozzarella Sticks: I choose string cheese because it’s easy to cut and melts perfectly. Feel free to use fresh mozzarella sticks or even cut mozzarella blocks into sticks if you prefer.
Seasoning Mix: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning give nice flavor, but you can swap Italian seasoning for dried basil or thyme if you have those. Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy touch, but you could skip it or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Egg Wash: This helps seal the wrappers and acts like glue for the seasoning. If vegan, use a little aquafaba (chickpea water) or plant milk mixed with a bit of flour as a nice alternative.
How Do You Keep Mozzarella From Leaking While Air Frying?
Cheese melting out can be a challenge. Here’s what helps:
- Use small sticks of mozzarella and don’t overfill the wrappers.
- Brush the edges with egg wash generously and press firmly to seal all sides tightly.
- Roll tightly around the cheese so there’s no loose dough.
- A quick chill in the fridge before air frying helps the seals set and prevents early leaks.
- Air fry at a high temperature but keep an eye so they don’t overcook or burst open.
These tips make sure your mozzarella stays gooey on the inside and crispy outside without a mess!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend this for quick, even cooking and getting that crispy outside without extra oil.
- Mixing bowl – For whisking the egg and water to make the egg wash, which helps seal the wrappers.
- Small bowl – To combine the seasonings like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan.
- Pastry brush – Use this to lightly brush the egg wash onto the wonton wrappers for sealing and seasoning.
- Plate or tray – To hold the wrapped mozzarella sticks before air frying.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for pepper Jack or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor or a little spicy kick.
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms inside the wrapper for extra flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika onto the seasonings for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Serve with a ranch or garlic aioli dipping sauce instead of marinara for a creamier option.
Air Fryer Wonton Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sticks:
- 20 wonton wrappers
- 10 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
For the Egg Wash & Seasoning:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil spray)
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep the sticks and 6-8 minutes to air fry them. So, in roughly 15-20 minutes, you’ll have crispy, cheesy wonton mozzarella sticks ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sticks:
Cut each mozzarella stick in half to make smaller sticks. Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface, and place one half-stick of mozzarella on one corner.
2. Seal the Wrappers:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water to make an egg wash. Brush the edges of the wonton wrapper with the egg wash, then roll the wrapper tightly around the mozzarella stick. Be sure to press the edges firmly so the cheese doesn’t leak out. Repeat this with all cheese halves.
3. Season the Wrapped Sticks:
Place the wrapped sticks on a plate. In another bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Lightly brush each wrapped stick with egg wash and sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on all sides for flavor.
4. Air Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the sticks in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy. Check at the halfway point and flip the sticks for even cooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the mozzarella sticks and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy your delicious crispy snack!
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella Sticks for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to completely thaw them in the fridge before wrapping. This helps prevent excess moisture that can cause soggy wrappers.
How Do I Store Leftover Wonton Mozzarella Sticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and wrap the sticks, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Air fry frozen sticks for an extra 2-3 minutes until crispy and heated through.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce for Dipping?
Try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a tasty twist on the classic dipping sauce.