1. Preheating Air Fryer: First things first, let’s get the air fryer ready. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial for ensuring the Trader Joe’s Mozzarella Sticks cook evenly and end up with that irresistible crunch. It usually takes about 3 minutes for most air fryers to reach the right temperature. Trust me, this little wait is worth it for the perfect texture.

2. Arrangement of Mozzarella Sticks in the Basket: Once your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to arrange the mozzarella sticks in the basket. Make sure they’re placed in a single layer with some space between each stick. This is key for ensuring they cook evenly and become perfectly crispy all around. Avoid overcrowding to prevent them from sticking together.

3. Ideal Cooking Temperature and Time: With your air fryer preheated and the mozzarella sticks arranged, set the air fryer to cook at 400°F. Cook them for about 6 minutes. This is the sweet spot for getting a golden-brown exterior while keeping the cheese melty and gooey inside.

4. Flipping or Shaking the Basket for Even Cooking: Halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a gentle shake or use tongs to flip the mozzarella sticks. This ensures every side gets that perfect golden color and crispiness. It’s a simple step but makes a big difference in the outcome.