These Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are little cheesy nuggets of joy! With crispy outside and gooey cheese inside, they are perfect for snacking anytime.
You’ll love how quick they are to whip up! Just bread the cheese, bake or fry, and you’ve got a tasty treat that disappears fast—don’t forget the dipping sauce! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: A block of mozzarella works great for these bites, but mozzarella sticks can save time. Fresh mozzarella gives a milky flavor, while low-moisture mozzarella ensures it melts well. If you’re dairy-free, there are plant-based mozzarella options to consider!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko creates a super crispy texture, but if you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work—just use twice as much for a similar crunch. For a satisfying crunch, you can even crush up some crackers or Corn Flakes!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth. If you’re looking for a substitute, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can provide great flavor. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan substitute for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning are tasty additions, but feel free to swap them with your favorite spices. Smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
How Do I Get My Mozzarella Bites Extra Crispy?
Making these bites crispy is all about the breading process! Here’s the plan:
- Freezing the cheese first helps it hold its shape during frying.
- Use a three-step breading process: flour, eggs, and then breadcrumbs. This helps the coating stick well.
- Double breading is the key! After the first round, dip again in egg and then breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy layer.
- Fry in batches and don’t overcrowd. Overcrowding cools the oil, leading to soggy bites.
- Draining on paper towels absorbs excess oil, keeping them crispy longer!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have irresistible bites that will be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Delicious Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Bites:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese block or mozzarella sticks
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Cooking:
- Cooking oil for frying (canola, vegetable, or olive oil)
- Marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time. You’ll need an additional 10 minutes for frying. So, in total, plan for about 30-35 minutes to make these tasty bites from start to finish. Quite quick and soooo worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella:
If you’re using a mozzarella block, cut it into bite-sized cubes. If you have sticks, you’re good to go! Place the cheese pieces on a parchment-lined tray and pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will make them firmer and prevent melting while frying. Trust me, this step is important!
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Now we’ll set the stage for the breading! Prepare three bowls:
- In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour and season it lightly with salt and pepper.
- In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs.
- For the last bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. Dredge the Cheese:
Take the mozzarella bites out of the freezer. Working quickly (to keep them chilly), dredge each piece first in the flour, shaking off the excess. This helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick later.
4. Dip and Coat:
Next, dip the floured cheese into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Now for the fun part! Coat each piece thoroughly with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it adheres well. You want a nice even layer on every bite!
5. Double Coat for Extra Crunch:
If you’d like some extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for double breading. This gives you an even crispier exterior!
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan, heat about 1-2 inches of cooking oil over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test if the oil is ready by dropping a breadcrumb in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
7. Fry the Bites:
Carefully fry the mozzarella bites in batches. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to keep the oil temperature steady.
8. Drain and Garnish:
Once golden, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bit of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious Parmesan Mozzarella Bites warm! They are perfect with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
These bites are a fantastic choice for parties, game nights, or a simple snack. They’re gooey on the inside, crispy on the outside, and totally irresistible!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is the star here, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that they may melt differently, so choose cheeses that hold up well when fried.
How Do I Store Leftover Mozzarella Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help them regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Bites in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded mozzarella bites in a single layer in the basket (you may need to do this in batches). Air fry for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Bites?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice! However, these bites also pair beautifully with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for a kick. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauces!
