Description
Crispy and golden air fryer cheese curds, lightly seasoned with garlic powder and a hint of cayenne pepper, make for a perfect snack or appetizer. This quick and easy recipe ensures gooey, melted cheese with a crunchy exterior in just minutes.
Ingredients
Coating Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Main Ingredient
- 8 ounces fresh cheese curds
Instructions
- Prepare the air fryer basket. Place a piece of parchment paper or waxed paper in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and make clean up easier.
- Set up the coating stations. Put the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl, beat the eggs in a second shallow bowl, and in a third bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs with garlic powder and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the cheese curds in flour. Take a few fresh cheese curds and evenly coat them in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured curds in egg. Submerge each floured cheese curd in the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated to help the breading stick.
- Coat with the bread crumb mixture. Roll the egg-dipped curds in the panko, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper mixture until fully covered.
- Arrange the coated curds. Place the breaded cheese curds in a single layer in the prepared air fryer basket to allow for even air circulation and crisping.
- Air fry the cheese curds. Cook them at 350ºF (about 175ºC) for 5 to 7 minutes or until they are golden brown and beginning to melt inside.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Fresh cheese curds work best for this recipe to achieve the perfect melt and texture.
- If your air fryer heats unevenly, shake the basket halfway through cooking to brown the curds evenly.
- Serve immediately for best texture and gooeyness.
- To keep the curds warm while cooking multiple batches, place them in a low oven (around 200ºF) on a baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
