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Air Fryer Pizza Sticks - Crispy, Cheesy, and Ready Fast

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

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade), or 6 large flour tortillas for a shortcut option
  • 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 12–16 slices pepperoni (optional)
  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce, plus extra for dipping
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Olive oil or spray oil
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 380°F (193°C). Let it heat while you assemble the sticks so they start crisping right away.
  • Prep the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle about 10x14 inches. If using tortillas, skip the rolling—just lay them flat.
  • Season the base: Brush a thin layer of olive oil over the surface. Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, a little salt, and black pepper. This boosts flavor in every bite.
  • Add sauce sparingly: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Too much sauce will make the sticks soggy and leak in the air fryer.
  • Layer the cheese and fillings: Scatter mozzarella evenly, then add pepperoni if using. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
  • Roll and seal: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal. If using tortillas, roll snugly and seal with a dab of sauce or a light brush of water.
  • Slice into sticks: Cut into 10–12 pieces, each about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Place seam-side down to help keep them closed.
  • Lightly oil: Spray or brush the tops with a little oil. This encourages a crisp, golden exterior.
  • Air fry in batches: Arrange sticks in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each. Cook for 7–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and bubbling at the edges. Tortilla sticks may need just 5–7 minutes.
  • Check doneness: Look for a deep golden color and melted cheese. If needed, add 1–2 minutes more. Avoid overcooking; they brown fast at the end.
  • Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with warm pizza sauce for dipping.