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Air Fryer Cheese Bread Sticks - Crispy, Cheesy, and Ready Fast

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Pizza dough (1 pound; store-bought or homemade)
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 1/2 cups)
  • Parmesan cheese, finely grated (1/4 cup)
  • Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons), melted
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon), for brushing the basket and dough
  • Garlic, minced (1–2 cloves) or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Marinara sauce or ranch, for dipping

Instructions

  • Preheat and prep the basket: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly brush the basket or tray with olive oil to help prevent sticking.
  • Prep the dough: If using refrigerated pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes so it’s easier to stretch. Dust your surface with a little flour and roll or press the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
  • Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic (or garlic powder), Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of pepper. This layer gives you that classic garlic bread flavor.
  • Assemble: Brush the dough with the garlic butter. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top, then add Parmesan. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Cut before cooking: Use a pizza cutter to slice the topped dough into sticks (about 1-inch wide). Cutting first makes serving easier and helps the edges crisp nicely.
  • Load the air fryer: Transfer pieces to the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
  • Air fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–9 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden brown. Start checking at 6 minutes—every air fryer runs a bit differently.
  • Finish and garnish: Carefully remove the sticks with tongs. If you like, brush with a touch more melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil.
  • Serve: Let them cool for 2–3 minutes so the cheese sets slightly. Serve warm with marinara or ranch for dipping.