Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are a mouth-watering appetizer or snack that combines gooey, melted mozzarella with a crispy, golden exterior. These cheese bites are easy to make and perfect for serving at parties, game days, or just as a fun treat. Served with marinara sauce for dipping, these crispy bites are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 8 oz block of mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Directions
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
- Beat the eggs: In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- Set up a dredging station: Place the flour in a third shallow dish.
- Coat the mozzarella: Dredge each piece of mozzarella in the flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Freeze the cheese bites: Place the coated cheese bites on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while frying.
- Heat the oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the cheese bites: Fry the cheese bites in batches for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the cheese bites from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the cheese bites hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb coating: For extra flavor, add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover mozzarella bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the cheese bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore the crispiness. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F.
10 FAQs
- Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of a block? It’s best to use a block of mozzarella and cut it into cubes, as shredded cheese may not hold together as well when frying.
- Can I bake these cheese bites instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, but they may not be as crispy as the fried version.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can coat the cheese bites and freeze them ahead of time, then fry them when you’re ready to serve.
- What type of oil should I use for frying? Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying.
- How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while frying? Freezing the coated cheese bites before frying helps the cheese stay intact while cooking. Don’t overcrowd the fryer to ensure even cooking.
- Can I use a deep fryer for frying? Yes, a deep fryer is ideal for frying these cheese bites, but you can also use a large pot or skillet with enough oil to submerge the bites.
- Can I make these cheese bites in an air fryer? Yes, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the cheese bites in batches for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Can I use a different cheese? While mozzarella is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
- Can I make a dipping sauce instead of using marinara? Yes, you can serve them with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or a spicy sriracha mayo sauce.
- What can I serve these cheese bites with? These cheese bites pair perfectly with a fresh salad, a side of vegetables, or as part of a larger appetizer platter with other finger foods.
Conclusion
Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are a fun and delicious snack or appetizer that everyone will enjoy. With a crispy, golden crust and a gooey, melted center, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy a snack that’s as tasty as it is satisfying!