Crispy Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites

Crispy Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites are the ultimate appetizer or snack for cheese lovers. Golden and crunchy on the outside, with gooey, melty mozzarella on the inside, they’re perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you’re craving something irresistibly cheesy.

Pair them with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for the perfect flavor combination!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Shallow plates or dishes for breading
• Large skillet or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Paper towels for draining

Ingredients Overview

For the Cheese Bites

• Mozzarella: Use block mozzarella and cut into cubes for the best results.
• Eggs: Help the breadcrumbs stick to the cheese.
• Breadcrumbs: Create a crispy outer layer. Use plain or Italian-seasoned for added flavor.
• Flour: The first step in breading; it helps the egg mixture adhere to the cheese.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor to the breading.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhance the taste.

For Frying

• Oil: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola is ideal for frying.

Ingredients

• 8 oz block mozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• Oil, for frying

Optional Garnishes and Dipping Sauces

• Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Bites

• Cut the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes and set aside.

2. Set Up the Breading Station

• Place the flour in one shallow dish.
• In a second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
• In a third dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Bread the Cheese Cubes

• Dredge each mozzarella cube in flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Dip the floured cube into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double breading.
• Place the breaded cheese cubes on a plate or tray and freeze for at least 20-30 minutes to prevent them from melting too quickly during frying.

4. Fry the Cheese Bites

• Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the mozzarella bites in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Freezing is Key: Don’t skip the freezing step; it prevents the cheese from oozing out during frying.
• Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
• Double Breading: For extra crunch, double-coat the mozzarella cubes in breadcrumbs.

What to Serve With This Recipe

These cheese bites pair beautifully with marinara sauce, spicy arrabbiata, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. They also complement a fresh side salad or a platter of other finger foods like chicken wings and veggie sticks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Place the breaded mozzarella bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes or until crispy.

Can I use pre-cut string cheese?
Absolutely! Cut string cheese into 1-inch pieces for a quicker alternative.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites are perfect for parties, game nights, or as a snack. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes, and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!

Crispy Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites

Crispy Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites are the ultimate appetizer or snack for cheese lovers. Golden and crunchy on the outside, with gooey, melty mozzarella on the inside, they’re perfect for parties, game days, or whenever you’re craving something irresistibly cheesy. Pair them with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for the perfect flavor combination!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz block mozzarella cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs plain or Italian-seasoned
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• Oil for frying
• Optional Garnishes and Dipping Sauces
• Marinara sauce ranch dressing, or garlic aioli

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Cheese Bites
• Cut the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
• Set Up the Breading Station
• Place the flour in one shallow dish.
• In a second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
• In a third dish, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Bread the Cheese Cubes
• Dredge each mozzarella cube in flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Dip the floured cube into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
• For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double breading.
• Place the breaded cheese cubes on a plate or tray and freeze for at least 20-30 minutes to prevent them from melting too quickly during frying.
• Fry the Cheese Bites
• Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the mozzarella bites in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
• Serve and Garnish
• Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.