Description
These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are crispy and gooey, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to a golden brown, they are best enjoyed warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix them together until they are evenly distributed.
- In a separate small bowl, crack the egg and beat it lightly with a fork until the yolk and white are fully combined.
- Pour the beaten egg into the cheese mixture and stir until the egg is fully incorporated. The mixture should start to clump together.
- Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the cheese and egg mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency.
- Prepare a clean surface or a large plate for shaping the bites. Lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
- Using your hands, take a small amount of the cheese mixture (about 1 tablespoon) and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into balls. You should have approximately 20-25 cheese bites, depending on the size you choose.
- Once all the cheese balls are formed, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
- Take each cheese ball and roll it in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully coated. Press gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the cheese mixture.
- Once all the cheese bites are breaded, place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, pour enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the breaded cheese bites to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the cheese bites from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Continue frying the remaining cheese bites until all are cooked.
- Once all the cheese bites are fried and drained, transfer them to a serving platter.
- Serve the cheesy bites warm, accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.
Notes
- If you have leftovers, allow the cheese bites to cool completely before storing them.
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes