Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food, combining gooey melted mozzarella cheese with a crispy, golden exterior. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these bite-sized treats are quick to prepare and sure to satisfy any cheese lover. Served with marinara sauce for dipping, they make for a deliciously indulgent treat that everyone will love.

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

In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
Place the flour in a third shallow dish.
Dredge each piece of mozzarella in the flour, dip in the beaten eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the coated cheese bites on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
Fry the cheese bites in batches for about 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Serve 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 Mozzarella Bites: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Herbed Mozzarella Bites: Mix in some dried oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Cheese Variation: Try substituting mozzarella with other cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Baked Mozzarella Bites: If you prefer to bake rather than fry, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftover mozzarella bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.

10 FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?
It’s best to use a block of mozzarella cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect the texture when fried.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mozzarella bites and freeze them until ready to fry. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices for frying mozzarella bites.
Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is an option if you want a lighter version. Just bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of different cheeses for a unique twist.
How do I know when the mozzarella bites are done?
The mozzarella bites should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. The cheese inside should be melted and gooey.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while frying?
Freezing the cheese bites before frying helps to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
Can I use marinara sauce for dipping?
Yes, marinara sauce is the perfect dipping sauce for these mozzarella bites, but you can also use ranch, garlic butter, or even spicy salsa.
Can I make these without eggs?
You can substitute the eggs with a mixture of milk and flour or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for an egg-free version.

Conclusion

Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are a crispy, cheesy delight that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With minimal prep time and just a few simple ingredients, these cheese-filled snacks are perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent. Whether served with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce, these bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!