Description
Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, these Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the ultimate appetizer or snack. With a crunchy golden-brown coating and a warm, gooey cheese center, they’re easy to make and deliver restaurant-quality flavor at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut the mozzarella cheese into bite-sized cubes.
- Set Up Breading Stations: In three separate bowls, place the flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in the last.
- Coat the Cheese: Dip each cheese cube into the flour, ensuring an even coat. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing slightly to adhere. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process.
- Freeze the Coated Cheese: Place the coated cheese bites on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This step prevents the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Test with a small breadcrumb—if it sizzles and rises, the oil is ready.
- Fry Until Golden: Fry the mozzarella bites in small batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy your Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Baked Version: Bake on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Herb-Infused: Mix fresh parsley or basil into the breading for an extra flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Freeze Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: cheesy mozzarella bites, crispy fried cheese, parmesan mozzarella appetizer, homemade cheese bites, easy party snacks