Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites Recipe
Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites are golden, crunchy on the outside, and filled with warm, melty cheese on the inside. Perfect for parties, snacks, or whenever a cheese craving strikes!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks cut into bite-size (1-inch) pieces
- 2 –3 cups vegetable oil for frying
For the Coating
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Marinara sauce warmed for dipping
- Fresh basil or parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cut each string cheese stick into 3–4 pieces. Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes to prevent melting during frying.
- Set out three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and seasoned breadcrumbs (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt) in the third.
- Working with a few frozen pieces at a time, coat in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
- Place breaded bites back on the tray and freeze for 15–20 minutes to firm up the coating.
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). No thermometer? Breadcrumbs should sizzle and brown in 20–30 seconds.
- Fry 4–6 bites at a time for 1–2 minutes, turning until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately with warm marinara and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley, if desired.