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air fried cheese curds crispy with marinara
Abby Pinkmann

Crispy Air Fried Cheese Curds

Crispy, melty, and golden brown in under 10 minutes, these air fried cheese curds bring all the flavor of classic fried snacks, without the mess. Made with simple ingredients and minimal oil, they’re the perfect shareable treat or appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Air fryer, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Cheese curds Fresh or store-bought
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour For first coating layer
  • 2 Eggs Beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Regular or Italian style
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder Optional seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika Optional for extra flavor
  • Olive oil spray For crisping coating

Equipment

  • 1 Air fryer Basket or drawer-style preferred
  • 1 Small Bowls For flour, egg, and breadcrumbs
  • 1 Tongs For flipping and safe handling
  • 1 Baking Tray For freezing breaded curds

Method
 

  1. Prepare a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika.
  2. Dredge each cheese curd in flour, then dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  3. Place breaded curds on a tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  5. Lightly spray the curds with olive oil and place in air fryer basket in a single layer.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway through.
  7. Remove when golden brown and crisp. Let rest 1–2 minutes before serving.

Notes

For frozen, pre-breaded cheese curds: skip the breading and freezing steps. Just air fry from frozen at 400°F for 6–8 minutes.
Best served immediately. To reheat, air fry again at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.
Try dipping in ranch, marinara, or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.