Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites

These Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites are golden, crunchy on the outside, and filled with gooey, melty cheese on the inside. They make the perfect appetizer, snack, or party treat and pair beautifully with marinara sauce or ranch dressing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Crispy & Cheesy – The perfect combination of crunch and gooey cheese.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick steps.
Great for Parties – A crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will love.
Dippable & Delicious – Perfect with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli.

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 Italian seasoning (optional)
• Cooking oil (for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil)

How to Make Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites:

Step 1: Prep the Cheese Bites

1. Cut each mozzarella stick into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch each).
2. Place the cheese pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
3. In one bowl, add the flour.
4. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
5. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Mozzarella Bites
6. Remove the cheese bites from the freezer.
7. Dip each piece into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
8. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating one more time.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
9. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat to 375°F (190°C).
10. Fry the mozzarella bites in small batches for 30-45 seconds, or until golden brown and crispy.
11. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
12. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli.

Baking & Air Fryer Option:

For Baking:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the coated mozzarella bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

For Air Frying:

• Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the cheese bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Tips for the Best Fried Mozzarella Bites:

Freeze Before Frying – Keeps the cheese from oozing out too quickly.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch – Adds an extra crispy layer.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs – They create a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
Fry in Small Batches – Prevents overcrowding and ensures even frying.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Marinara Sauce – A classic pairing.
• With Ranch or Garlic Aioli – For a creamy dip.
• On a Charcuterie Board – A fun addition to snack platters.
• With Fresh Basil & Parmesan – For extra Italian flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions:

• Store Leftovers – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later – Freeze before frying for up to 1 month.
• Reheat in the Air Fryer – At 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to get crispy again.

Recipe Overview:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus freezing)
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: American / Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 220 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 350mg

Enjoy these Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites for a fun, cheesy snack that’s perfect for dipping!

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