Description
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these homemade Mozzarella Bites are a delightful appetizer or snack. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and served with marinara sauce, they are perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella balls)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or a heavy-bottomed pot, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the mozzarella bites (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Mozzarella: Take a piece of mozzarella cheese (or a mozzarella ball) and dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured cheese into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, roll the cheese in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat this process for all the mozzarella pieces.
- Fry the Mozzarella Bites: Once the oil is hot, carefully add a few mozzarella bites to the 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.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once the mozzarella bites are golden brown, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Check the Temperature: Before serving, check the internal temperature of the mozzarella bites. If they are not melting enough, place them in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) for a few minutes to warm through.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the mozzarella bites are cooling slightly, prepare your dipping sauce. You can use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own by simmering crushed tomatoes with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs for about 20 minutes.
- Plate the Mozzarella Bites: Arrange the fried mozzarella bites on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Serve the mozzarella bites warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also offer additional dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli for variety.
Notes
- For the best results, use high-quality mozzarella cheese. Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) work wonderfully, but shredded mozzarella is also a great option.
- Using Italian-style breadcrumbs adds extra flavor. You can also make your own by processing stale bread with Italian herbs.
- Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the bites will burn on the outside while remaining cold inside. If its too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes