Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these Fried Mozzarella Bites are an irresistible snack or appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or just because. With a golden, crunchy coating and melty cheese center, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair them with marinara sauce for dipping, and you’ve got a match made in heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Cheesy Goodness: Bite-sized mozzarella pieces melt into creamy perfection when fried.
- Crispy Coating: Double-dipping ensures an extra-crisp, flavorful shell.
- Easy & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (about 10 sticks)
- 1 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- Cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat )
- Vegetable oil , for frying
Tools Needed:
- Sharp knife
- 3 medium bowls
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Paper towels
- Tongs or fork for dipping
Instructions:
Step 1: Cut the Cheese 🧀
- Slice each mozzarella stick into 3 or 4 even pieces , depending on your preferred size. Aim for uniform bites so they fry evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Station 🥣
- Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until blended. Add the milk and whisk again until smooth.
- Place the flour in one bowl and the bread crumbs in another. Arrange the bowls in order: flour → egg mixture → bread crumbs .
Step 3: Coat the Mozzarella Bites ✋
- Take one mozzarella piece at a time and roll it in the flour , ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Dip it into the egg mixture , then press it into the bread crumbs , making sure the coating is even.
- For an extra-crisp shell, double dip : Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
Step 4: Chill the Coated Bites ❄️
- Transfer the coated bites to a plate and chill them in the freezer for 15–20 minutes . This step helps prevent the cheese from oozing out while frying.
Step 5: Heat the Oil 🔥
- Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F .
- Test the oil by dropping in a small breadcrumb—if it sizzles, it’s ready.
Step 6: Fry in Batches 🍳
- Using a slotted spoon, carefully add 5–7 cheese bites to the hot oil. Fry for 30 seconds to 1 minute , or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy bites.
- Remove the bites with the slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy 🍅
- Serve the mozzarella bites warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.
Tips for Success:
- Prevent Melting Mess: Don’t skip chilling the bites—it’s key to keeping the cheese from leaking during frying.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, air fry the bites at 375°F for 8–10 minutes , flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Lightly spray with cooking oil before frying.
- Storage: Store uncooked, coated bites in the freezer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the cooking time.
- Flavor Boost: Add dried herbs like parsley, oregano, or garlic powder to the bread crumbs for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes ~4 servings):
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~15g
Enjoy these Fried Mozzarella Bites as a cheesy, crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their gooey centers and crunchy exteriors make them impossible to resist—serve them as an appetizer, snack, or party favorite, and watch them disappear in minutes!
