Homemade Fried Cheese Bites
Homemade Fried Cheese Bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer. These crispy, golden bites of cheesy goodness are perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion when you crave something indulgent and delicious. Pair them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for a crowd-pleasing treat!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- - Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- - Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- - Paper towels
- - Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- - 1 lb mozzarella cheese block cut into 1-inch cubes
- - 2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 3 large eggs
- - 2 cups Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- - 1 tsp garlic powder
- - 1 tsp paprika
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp black pepper
- - Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- **Prepare the Cheese:** Cut the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent melting during frying.
- **Set Up Dredging Station:** In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- **Coat the Cheese:** Dip each cheese cube into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispy bites, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
- **Freeze Again:** Place the coated cheese bites back on the baking sheet and freeze for another 15 minutes to help the coating adhere.
- **Heat the Oil:** Fill a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot with oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
- **Fry the Cheese Bites:** Fry the cheese bites in small batches for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- **Serve:** Serve the fried cheese bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.