Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites

These Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are golden, crunchy on the outside, and filled with gooey, melted cheese inside. Perfect for snacking, appetizers, or party platters, they pair beautifully with marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Crispy & Crunchy – A perfectly golden breading.
Gooey Cheese Center – Melts in your mouth.
Great for Parties – A crowd-favorite appetizer.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep.

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For Serving:

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing

How to Make Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites:

Step 1: Prep the Cheese Bites

1. Cut each mozzarella stick into 3 or 4 equal-sized pieces.
2. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This prevents melting while frying.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations

3. In one bowl, mix flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
5. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Bread the Cheese Bites

6. Dip each frozen cheese bite into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
7. Next, dip into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage.
8. Finally, coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they stick.
9. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and panko coating step.

Step 4: Fry the Mozzarella Bites

10. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
11. Fry in batches for 30-45 seconds, or until golden brown.
12. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

13. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

Baking or Air Fryer Option:

Baking:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place cheese bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Lightly spray with oil and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Air Frying:

• Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Arrange in a single layer, spray lightly with oil.
• Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway.

Serving Suggestions:

• Game Day Snack – Perfect for dipping while watching sports.
• Party Appetizer – Serve on a platter with assorted dips.
• Pizza Night Side – Pair with garlic bread and pasta.

Tips for the Best Mozzarella Cheese Bites:

Freeze Before Frying – Keeps the cheese from melting too quickly.
Double Coat for Extra Crispiness – Helps create a thick, crunchy shell.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs – They give the best crispy texture.
Don’t Overcrowd While Frying – This ensures even cooking.

Storage & Reheating:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months, then reheat from frozen.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Recipe Overview:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes (+30 min freezing)
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 220 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 320mg

These Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are a cheesy, crunchy, and irresistible snack perfect for any occasion!

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