Description
Crispy and melty Air Fryer Cheese Curds coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, perfect as a delicious appetizer or snack. Made with a combination of panko and regular breadcrumbs and seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, these golden cheese curds are air fried to perfection for a healthier alternative to deep frying.
Ingredients
Coating Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup regular breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Main Ingredient
- 10 oz cheese curds
Finishing
- Cooking oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the coating mixture: In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, whisking until evenly mixed.
- Coat the cheese curds in flour: Working in small batches, toss the cheese curds in the flour bowl until they are well coated, then shake off any excess flour.
- Dip in egg wash: Transfer the floured cheese curds to the beaten eggs bowl, coating each curd thoroughly while allowing any excess egg to drip off.
- Coat with breadcrumb mixture: Place the egg-coated cheese curds into the breadcrumb mixture and toss until fully covered. Arrange the breaded curds on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Repeat the coating steps with remaining cheese curds.
- Freeze for setting: Freeze the fully coated cheese curds for 30 minutes to help the breading adhere and improve texture during cooking.
- Prepare for air frying: Place the frozen breaded cheese curds in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. It may be necessary to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Lightly spray the top of the curds with cooking oil spray.
- Air fry: Cook at 380°F (195°C) for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the breading is golden brown and crispy and the cheese inside is melted.
- Serve: Remove immediately and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Freezing the cheese curds before air frying is essential for preventing the breading from falling off and for better results.
- You can use any favorite dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli to complement the cheese curds.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model, so monitor for desired crispiness.
- Ensure the cheese curds are fresh and well dried before coating to reduce moisture and enhance crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
