If you’re a fan of cheesy appetizers, then you’re going to love this easy fried mozzarella cheese bites recipe. These crunchy and gooey cheese bites are perfect for any occasion, from game day parties to family movie nights. Plus, they’re super easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients.
To make these delicious cheese bites, you’ll need mozzarella string cheese, Italian bread crumbs, flour, eggs, milk, and cayenne pepper (optional). Simply cut the string cheese into bite-sized pieces, then dip them in the flour, egg, and bread crumb mixture. Fry them up until they’re golden brown and crispy, then serve them with your favorite dipping sauce.
These fried mozzarella cheese bites are sure to be a hit with everyone, and they’re a great way to use up any leftover string cheese you might have in the fridge. So why not give them a try and see for yourself how easy and delicious they are?
Required Kitchen Tools
Making easy fried mozzarella cheese bites requires some basic kitchen tools that you probably already have. Here are the tools you will need:
1. Deep Fryer
A deep fryer is the easiest and most efficient way to fry your mozzarella cheese bites. It allows you to maintain a consistent temperature and ensures that your cheese bites cook evenly. If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can use a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet instead.
2. Thermometer
To ensure that your oil is at the right temperature, you will need a thermometer. A candy thermometer or a digital thermometer will work. Make sure to monitor the temperature of your oil throughout the frying process to prevent your cheese bites from burning.
3. Tongs
Tongs are essential for safely removing your cheese bites from the hot oil. Make sure to use tongs with a non-slip grip to avoid dropping your cheese bites.
4. Baking Sheet
After frying your cheese bites, you will need a baking sheet to place them on. Line your baking sheet with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
5. Mixing Bowls
You will need two mixing bowls for the breading process. One bowl for the flour and another for the egg mixture. Use shallow bowls to make it easier to coat your cheese bites evenly.
With these basic kitchen tools, you will be able to make easy fried mozzarella cheese bites in no time!
Ingredients:
- 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (or 10 sticks)
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Take out a cutting board and cut your string cheese sticks into bite size pieces.
- In a medium sized bowl, add your eggs and whisk to break them up. Add the milk and whisk again to incorporate the two ingredients.
- Set aside two additional bowls. Fill one with your flour and the next with your bread crumbs. Place the bowl with your eggs and milk mixture in the middle of that line, so that you now have three bowls in a row (flour, eggs, bread crumbs).
- Take one piece of mozzarella. Dip it in the flour, then immediately in the egg mixture. Now, roll your cheese bite around in the bread crumbs. Continue to do this until you have all the pieces of cheese coated. You can place each finished piece on a plate once they are completed.
- In a medium sized skillet, heat your vegetable oil (about 2 inches high) to 350 degrees. (To test this, place a wooden spoon handle in the oil. If the bubbles are rolling on the handle, you’re ready.)
- Pull out a plate and line it with a paper towel.
- Add 5-7 pieces into the oil for about 30 seconds. Make sure that you keep them separated so that they don’t bond together!
- Fry your mozzarella bites until they are golden brown (which should be at that 30 second mark). Using a slotted spoon, remove your pieces from the oil and place them on the paper towels.
- Repeat this process with different batches until all of your bites are fried.
- Serve immediately with pasta sauce or just eat them by themselves!
Prep Time: 15 minutes – Cook Time: 5 minutes – Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 50 Bites
Frying Technique
When it comes to making crispy and delicious fried mozzarella cheese bites, the frying technique is key. Here are some tips on how to get the perfect texture and flavor for your fried mozzarella cheese bites.
Oil Temperature and Safety
First and foremost, it’s important to use the right type of oil and to make sure it’s at the correct temperature. You want to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, and heat it to around 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the cheese bites cook quickly and evenly without absorbing too much oil.
It’s also important to practice safe frying techniques. Never leave hot oil unattended, and make sure to use a deep pot or fryer to avoid splatters. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case, and use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the cheese bites from the oil to avoid burns.
Cooking Time and Batches
When frying mozzarella cheese bites, it’s important to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy and greasy cheese bites. Depending on the size of your pot, you may need to fry the cheese bites in several batches.
Cook the cheese bites for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them over halfway through cooking to ensure that both sides are evenly cooked. Once the cheese bites are done, remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon or spider and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
With these frying tips, you’ll be able to make perfectly crispy and delicious fried mozzarella cheese bites every time.
Serving Suggestions
After making these easy fried mozzarella cheese bites, you might be wondering how to serve them. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
1. Appetizer
Fried mozzarella cheese bites make a perfect appetizer for any party or gathering. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or any other dipping sauce of your choice. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for added flavor and presentation.
2. Salad Topping
Want to add some crunch to your salad? Use fried mozzarella cheese bites as a topping. Cut them into smaller pieces and sprinkle them on top of your favorite salad. The warm and crispy texture of the cheese bites will add a nice contrast to the fresh greens.
3. Sandwich Filling
Make a delicious sandwich by adding fried mozzarella cheese bites as a filling. You can use any bread of your choice and add some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. The melted cheese will add a gooey and savory flavor to your sandwich.
4. Pizza Topping
If you love pizza, try using fried mozzarella cheese bites as a topping. Cut them into smaller pieces and sprinkle them on top of your pizza before baking. The cheese bites will turn golden brown and add a crispy texture to your pizza.
Overall, there are many ways to serve these easy fried mozzarella cheese bites. Get creative and enjoy them in different ways!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Once you have made your delicious Easy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites, you may be wondering how to store and reheat them for later consumption. Here are some tips to keep them fresh and tasty:
Storage Tips
- Store the fried mozzarella cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Do not stack the cheese bites on top of each other as they may stick together.
- If you have a large batch of cheese bites, separate them into smaller portions to make it easier to reheat them later.
- The cheese bites will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Reheating Tips
- To reheat the cheese bites, preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place the cheese bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the cheese bites for 5-7 minutes or until they are heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the cheese bites in an air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F.
- Do not microwave the cheese bites as this will make them soggy.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Easy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Bites again and again without sacrificing their delicious flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook mozzarella bites in an air fryer?
Air fryers are a great alternative to deep frying. For the perfect crispy mozzarella bites, preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Coat your cheese bites in egg and then in a mixture of flour and breadcrumbs. Place the bites in the air fryer basket and cook for 6-8 minutes. Turn the bites over halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
How can you make fried mozzarella balls without using breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for an alternative to breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes, panko, or even crushed crackers. Another option is to use a mixture of flour and cornmeal.
What are the essential ingredients for a simple fried cheese ball recipe?
The essential ingredients for a simple fried cheese ball recipe are mozzarella cheese, flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. You can also add seasoning to the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Should mozzarella be frozen before frying to maintain its shape?
No, you should not freeze mozzarella before frying. Freezing can alter the texture of the cheese and make it harder to work with. Instead, chill the cheese in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before breading and frying.
Is it possible to fry cheese bites without any breading, and if so, how?
Yes, it is possible to fry cheese bites without breading. Simply cut the cheese into bite-sized pieces and fry them in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy.
How do fried cheese bites differ from traditional mozzarella sticks?
Fried cheese bites are smaller and more bite-sized than traditional mozzarella sticks. They are also coated in a thinner layer of breading and are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
