These Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are bite-sized delights that are cheesy, crispy, and oh-so-addictive! Perfect for snacking or as a fun appetizer at parties.
They bring the best of both worlds with crunchy breading and melty cheese inside. I love serving them with marinara sauce for extra yum—who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: The star of this recipe! Use fresh mozzarella for a creamy center or part-skim for a firmer bite. If you’re lactose intolerant, try dairy-free mozzarella available in many stores.
Breadcrumbs: I love using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice cereal for crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: This brings a salty, nutty flavor. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Make sure it’s finely grated to mix well with breadcrumbs.
Herbs: The dried Italian herbs mix adds aroma and taste. Feel free to mix fresh herbs like basil or oregano if you have them on hand; just use more since fresh herbs are less potent.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Crispy Coating?
The coating on these bites is crucial for that satisfying crunch. Here’s how to nail it:
- Set up your breading station neatly. This keeps the process organized and easier to manage.
- Be sure to dry the mozzarella pieces well. Excess moisture will make the coating soggy.
- Double coat! The first round of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs works well, but a second round adds extra crunch.
- Watch the temperature of your oil closely. Too hot and they burn, too cool and they’ll soak up oil and become greasy.
With these tips, your Parmesan Mozzarella Bites will be a crispy hit every time! Enjoy snacking!
How to Make Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese block (cut into bite-sized cubes or small balls)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, parsley mix)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. With everything combined, you can enjoy your delicious Parmesan Mozzarella Bites in about 25 minutes!
How to Make Them: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Mozzarella:
Start by cutting your mozzarella cheese into bite-sized cubes or using small mozzarella balls directly if you have those. Make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel to get rid of any excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
2. Setting Up Your Breading Station:
Next, set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs. In the third bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. This makes it easy to coat the cheese pieces!
3. Coating the Cheese:
Take a piece of mozzarella, coat it in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully covered. Finally, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick well. For an extra-crispy bite, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb steps once more on each piece.
4. Frying the Bites:
In a deep pan or deep fryer, heat enough oil to fully submerge the bites, ideally around 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella bites in batches for about 1-2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
5. Draining and Baking:
Once golden brown, carefully remove the bites and let them drain on paper towels. After that, transfer the fried bites to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes, just to melt the cheese inside perfectly.
6. Finishing Touches:
Before serving, garnish your delicious bites with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top if you’d like. Serve them hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy!
These crispy, gooey Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are perfect as a snack or appetizer, and they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
While mozzarella is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting consistency may vary!
How Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
You can prep the bites ahead of time and store them in the fridge before frying. For best results, coat them and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before frying. Just make sure they’re at room temperature before frying for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftover bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can! After coating the mozzarella bites, place them on a baking sheet and spray with cooking oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning. They won’t be as crunchy as fried, but still delicious!
