Homemade Fried Cheese Bites Recipe
Ingredients:
1 block mozzarella cheese (or your favorite cheese), cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Tools You’ll Need:
Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
Slotted spoon
Mixing bowls (for the breading station)
Paper towels (for draining)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cheese: Cut the block of mozzarella (or your preferred cheese) into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes on a tray and freeze for 30 minutes. This helps the cheese keep its shape while frying.
Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour
Bowl 2: Whisked eggs
Bowl 3: Breadcrumb mixture (combine seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning).
Bread the Cheese Bites:
Dredge each frozen cheese cube in flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip into the whisked eggs, ensuring full coverage.
Roll the cheese cube in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
Fry the Cheese Bites: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F. Fry the cheese bites in small batches for 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown. Be careful not to overcook or the cheese may melt out! Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Watch these bites disappear as soon as they hit the table!
What to Serve with Fried Cheese Bites: Pair these cheesy bites with marinara or ranch dipping sauces. They also go well with a crisp green salad for balance or alongside other appetizers like stuffed Doritos or funnel cake bites for a party platter that’s sure to impress.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Bites:
Freeze the cheese: Don’t skip this step—it prevents the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.
Double-coat for extra crunch: If you want a thicker, crispier shell, coat the bites twice in the egg and breadcrumbs.
Fry in small batches: Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, so fry a few at a time for even cooking.
Storage Instructions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
You can also freeze the breaded bites before frying! Freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to fry, cook them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, Gouda, or even pepper jack are all great options.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the breaded bites for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Vegetable oil is ideal because it has a high smoke point, ensuring the bites get crispy without burning.
Conclusion: These homemade Fried Cheese Bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer. With their gooey center and crispy exterior, they’re bound to be a hit with everyone. They’re also easy to customize and can be made ahead of time! Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will always impress.
Love tasty snacks? Be sure to try my Bacon Cream Cheese Stuffed Doritos or Funnel Cake Bites for more crowd-pleasing treats!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 14g
Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!