Mozzarella Bites

Mozzarella Bites: The Perfect Crispy and Cheesy Snack

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, these Mozzarella Bites are exactly what you need! With a crispy Panko coating and a gooey, melty mozzarella center, these bites are perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or enjoying on their own. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family movie night, or just craving a cheesy snack, these homemade mozzarella bites are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike!

Ingredients:

• 1 package Mozzarella string cheese (12 count)
• 2 cups Panko bread crumbs
• 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Oil for frying

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella

1. Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick into 1-inch pieces to create bite-sized portions.
2. Set the mozzarella pieces aside while you prepare the coating station.

Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Station

1. Pour the milk into a bowl.
2. In a plastic bag, add 1 cup of flour. In a separate plastic bag, mix together 2 cups of Panko bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
3. This setup makes it easy to coat the cheese bites without making a mess!

Step 3: Coat the Mozzarella Bites

1. Dip a handful of the mozzarella pieces into the milk to coat them evenly.
2. Transfer the milk-coated mozzarella bites to the flour bag, seal, and shake well to cover the cheese with flour.
3. Remove the floured bites from the bag, dip them in the milk again, and make sure they are fully coated.
4. Toss the milk-covered bites into the Panko bag, seal, and shake until the bites are completely coated in the seasoned bread crumbs.

Step 4: Freeze the Mozzarella Bites

1. Place the coated mozzarella bites on a plate or in a bag and freeze for at least 2 hours. Freezing ensures that the cheese holds its shape during frying and prevents it from oozing out too quickly.

Step 5: Fry the Mozzarella Bites

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying.
2. Fry the frozen mozzarella bites in the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Cook the bites for about 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook them, as the cheese may melt out of the breading.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the mozzarella bites warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
2. These bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven for a crispy texture later on.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Freezing Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 12 servings
• Calories: 210 kcal per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy & Gooey: The combination of a crunchy Panko coating and melty mozzarella center makes these bites irresistibly good.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a restaurant-quality snack at home.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, game-day snack, or movie night treat, these mozzarella bites are always a hit!

Tips for Success:

• Freeze for Success: Don’t skip the freezing step! Freezing the mozzarella bites before frying ensures the cheese stays intact while the breading crisps up.
• Use String Cheese: Pre-cut mozzarella string cheese works perfectly because it holds its shape well and is easy to portion.
• Customize the Seasoning: Add extra spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Panko mixture for added flavor.

These Mozzarella Bites are sure to become your go-to snack whenever you’re in the mood for something cheesy, crunchy, and delicious. Pair them with your favorite marinara sauce or serve them as part of a larger spread for parties and gatherings. No matter how you enjoy them, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

Print