Description
These Fried Cheese Bites are a crispy and delicious appetizer featuring gooey mozzarella cubes coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a party snack or a quick indulgent treat, they pair beautifully with marinara sauce, ranch, or spicy aioli for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Bites
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese block (or cheddar, pepper jack, etc.), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs or panko
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Optional for Serving
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy aioli
Instructions
- Prepare breading station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, one with whisked eggs mixed with milk, and one with Italian-style breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
- Bread the cheese cubes: Toss the cheese cubes in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip each cube into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Next, roll the cubes thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
- Freeze the breaded cubes: Arrange the breaded cheese bites on a plate or tray and freeze them for 15–20 minutes. This chilling step is crucial to prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.
- Heat the oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain accurate temperature for best results.
- Fry the cheese bites: Fry the cheese bites in small batches to avoid overcrowding, for 1–2 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the fried cheese bites hot, accompanied by your choice of marinara sauce, ranch, or spicy aioli for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded cheese is essential to keep them from melting and oozing during frying.
- For a healthier alternative, you can air fry the bites at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to maintain consistent oil temperature and prevent burning.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor, as they are best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15–20 minutes chilling)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 6 bites
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
