Air Fryer Cheese Curds

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Crispy on the outside and perfectly melty on the inside, these easy air fryer cheese curds deliver classic Wisconsin flavor without the mess of deep frying.

Prep Time15

Cook Time7

Total Time22

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Keyword: air fryer, cheese curds

Servings: servings

Calories: 490kcal

Author: Sara

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 cups panko bread crumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
8 ounces fresh cheese curds

Instructions

Put a piece of parchment paper or waxed paper in your air fryer basket.
Place flour in a shallow bowl.
Beat eggs in another shallow bowl.
In a third bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Coat a few cheese curds in flour.
Next, dip them in the egg.
Finally, coat them with the bread crumb mixture.
Place coated cheese curbs in your prepared air fryer basket.
Air fry at 350ºF for 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and beginning to melt.

Notes

Freshness matters: Fresh cheese curds give you the best flavor and texture. Keep in mind that refrigerating curds can reduce their signature “squeak,” so for the best bite, use them as fresh as possible.
Keep them cool while breading: While long refrigeration isn’t ideal for squeak, briefly chilling the curds after breading (10 minutes or less) can help prevent melting and leaking during air frying if needed.
Work in batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so the curds crisp evenly on all sides.
Press the breading on well: Gently press the breadcrumb mixture onto each curd to help it stick and stay put.
Use parchment or a liner: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Lightly spray for crispness: A quick spritz of cooking spray helps the breading turn golden and crunchy.
Watch closely: Start checking at the 5-minute mark—cheese curds cook quickly once they begin to melt.
Serve immediately: Cheese curds are best enjoyed hot, fresh, and melty right out of the air fryer.

Nutrition