Mozzarella Cheese Bites Recipe

Cheese Bites

1. 1

   Prep the cheese

   Drain the fresh mozzarella balls well and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them on a tray in a single layer and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to remove excess surface moisture so the breading adheres better.

2. 2

   Set up breading stations

   Place 0.5 cup flour in a shallow bowl (dredge). In a second shallow bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons milk (and 1 tsp cold water if desired) until smooth to make an egg wash. In a third shallow bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 3/4 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder; mix thoroughly.

3. 3

   Bread the mozzarella

   Working in batches of 6–8 pieces to keep breading dry, dredge each mozzarella ball first in the 0.5 cup flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg wash so it is fully coated. Next roll the ball in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For an extra-crisp, extra-secure coating, place the breaded balls on a tray and refrigerate for 10 minutes, then repeat the egg wash and panko step a second time to create a double coating.

4. 4

   Heat the oil

   Pour about 2 cups vegetable oil into a medium heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet so oil depth is about 1.5 inches. Heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test with one bread crumb: it should sizzle steadily and brown slowly.

5. 5

   Fry the bites

   Fry the breaded mozzarella balls in batches (do not overcrowd) for 1.5–2 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel–lined tray to drain. If you double-coated, the interior will stay contained and not leak while frying.

6. 6

   Keep warm and serve

   Preheat the oven to 200°F (95°C) and keep a baking sheet in the oven. As batches finish, keep the fried bites on the warm baking sheet so they stay crisp. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

7. 7

   Safety and tips

   If a ball shows signs of leaking cheese while frying, remove it immediately and drain on paper towels. To bake instead of frying: place single- or double-breaded bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8–10 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.