Golden, crispy mozzarella fingers with a gooey center, air fried to perfection and perfect for dipping.
# What you'll need:
→ Bread & Cheese
01 - 8 slices white sandwich bread
02 - 8 slices mozzarella cheese or 7 oz block mozzarella, cut into sticks
→ Coating
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 tablespoons milk
05 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ For Serving
10 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
# Method:
01 - Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
02 - Trim crusts from the bread slices. Place 4 slices on work surface, top each with mozzarella sticks, then cover with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
03 - Press sandwiches firmly and cut each into three finger-sized sticks.
04 - Whisk together eggs and milk in a shallow bowl.
05 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
06 - Dip each sandwich finger into egg wash, then dredge thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
07 - Arrange coated fingers in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Air fry for 4 minutes, flip, and cook an additional 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crisp. Handle in batches if necessary.
08 - Serve hot with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.