These Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites are the ultimate snack for cheese lovers! Imagine biting into a crispy, golden coating that reveals gooey, melted mozzarella on the inside. Whether it’s game night, a party, or just because you’re craving something cheesy, these fried cheese bites deliver big on flavor and texture. Serve them with marinara or ranch for the perfect dipping experience!
Ingredients
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8 oz mozzarella cheese (cut into bite-sized cubes)
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1 cup flour
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2 large eggs (beaten)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Oil for frying
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Marinara or ranch for dipping
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the cheese cubes
Cut the mozzarella into bite-sized cubes (about 1 inch). Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Set up the breading station
In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a little more salt and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the cheese bites
Dip each cheese cube into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, and finally, roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps one more time.
Step 4: Freeze before frying
Place the coated cheese bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 30 minutes to prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.
Step 5: Heat the oil
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for optimal frying.
Step 6: Fry the cheese bites
Fry the mozzarella bites in small batches for 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve hot
Serve immediately with marinara or ranch for dipping. Enjoy the cheesy, gooey perfection!
Variation
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Spicy Cheese Bites: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
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Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh basil or parsley into the breadcrumb coating.
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Cheddar Twist: Use cheddar cubes instead of mozzarella for a sharper taste.
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Cheese Stick Version: Cut mozzarella sticks into bite-sized pieces instead of using a block of cheese.
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Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Note
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Freezing the cheese bites before frying is essential to prevent them from bursting.
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Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C).
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Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even frying and crispy bites.
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Double coating the cheese with breadcrumbs ensures a thick, crispy crust.
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Always serve hot for the best melty, cheesy experience.
Tips
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Serve with a variety of dips like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard.
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Add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mix for an extra cheesy crust.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
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Use whole milk mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
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Make sure the cheese is completely dry before coating to help the batter stick.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus 30 minutes freezing time)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 280
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Protein: 12g
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Fat: 16g
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Carbohydrates: 20g
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Sugar: 1g
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Sodium: 480mg
Values may vary based on specific ingredients used
FAQs
Can I use string cheese instead of mozzarella cubes?
Yes, cutting string cheese into bite-sized pieces works well and saves prep time.
Why do I need to freeze the cheese bites?
Freezing helps the coating set and prevents the cheese from leaking out during frying.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
What if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs, but Panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and freeze them, then fry just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
These Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites are everything you crave in a cheesy snack—golden, crispy, and oozing with melted mozzarella. Whether you’re hosting a game night, attending a potluck, or just indulging in a cheesy craving, these bites are always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch them disappear in no time! 🧀✨
Print
Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 30 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
-
8 oz mozzarella cheese (cut into bite-sized cubes)
-
1 cup flour
-
2 large eggs (beaten)
-
1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp Italian seasoning
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Oil for frying
-
Marinara or ranch for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the cheese cubes
Cut the mozzarella into bite-sized cubes (about 1 inch). Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Set up the breading station
In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a little more salt and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the cheese bites
Dip each cheese cube into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, and finally, roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps one more time.
Step 4: Freeze before frying
Place the coated cheese bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 30 minutes to prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.
Step 5: Heat the oil
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for optimal frying.
Step 6: Fry the cheese bites
Fry the mozzarella bites in small batches for 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve hot
Serve immediately with marinara or ranch for dipping. Enjoy the cheesy, gooey perfection!
Notes
-
Freezing the cheese bites before frying is essential to prevent them from bursting.
-
Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C).
-
Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even frying and crispy bites.
-
Double coating the cheese with breadcrumbs ensures a thick, crispy crust.
-
Always serve hot for the best melty, cheesy experience.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 12g
Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites are a cheesy, golden snack perfect for parties and game nights!