Description
These golden-fried mozzarella bites feature a crispy, seasoned breadcrumb coating with a molten cheese center that oozes with every bite. Perfect for entertaining, game day, or whenever you crave a delicious appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup corn flour
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- splash water, for the egg wash
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Oil, for frying, vegetable or canola oil works best
- Optional toppings and dipping sauces, marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for serving; fresh basil or oregano for the breadcrumb mix
Instructions
- Cut the mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella into bite-sized cubes, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch in size, and set them aside on a plate.
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and corn flour together, then season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Beat the eggs: In a separate shallow bowl, beat the eggs with a splash of water until well combined and slightly foamy.
- Mix the breadcrumbs: In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the dried parsley and mix well.
- Coat with flour: Working with one mozzarella cube at a time, coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in egg: Transfer the floured cube to the egg mixture and coat completely on all sides.
- Roll in breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the cube generously with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres.
- Double coat: For a thicker and extra-crispy coating, dip each bite back into the egg mixture and then the breadcrumbs one more time.
- Freeze: Place all coated mozzarella bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 to 60 minutes so the cheese stays contained while frying.
- Heat the oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet or pot to about 2 inches deep and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F.
- Fry in batches: Carefully add the frozen mozzarella bites to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
- Monitor the color: Fry for 1 to 2 minutes until the coating turns crispy and golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain and serve: Remove the bites with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate before serving hot and crispy with marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes