Description
These Easy Fried Cheese Bites are crispy, golden morsels of mozzarella cheese, perfect for a quick appetizer or party snack. Coated in seasoned Italian breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, they offer a delightfully crunchy exterior with a melty, cheesy center. Serve them hot with marinara sauce for dipping to add a tangy contrast to the rich cheese flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese block, cut into ¾-inch cubes
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2–3 inches deep in pan)
Optional
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut the mozzarella cheese into ¾-inch bite-sized cubes and place them in the freezer for 20–30 minutes. This chilling step firms up the cheese and helps it retain shape during frying.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and the third with Italian-style breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder and paprika for seasoning.
- Bread the Cheese Cubes: Coat each chilled cheese cube first in flour, ensuring an even dusting. Then dip it into the egg mixture, followed by rolling in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. For added crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more for a double coating.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep saucepan or pot, heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the precise frying temperature for optimal crispiness.
- Fry the Cheese Bites: Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully fry the cheese bites for 1–2 minutes each or until they turn golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot with optional marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing the cheese before frying helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and keeps the bites intact.
- You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Maintain oil temperature carefully to prevent greasy or undercooked bites.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
