Easy Fried Cheese Bites are the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. These delicious bites are made from mozzarella string cheese, coated in a crispy bread crumb layer, and fried to golden perfection. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving a tasty treat, these cheese bites are sure to be a hit. Serve them hot with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful and satisfying snack.
Easy Fried Cheese Bites are the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. These delicious bites are made from mozzarella string cheese, coated in a crispy bread crumb layer, and fried to golden perfection. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving a tasty treat, these cheese bites are sure to be a hit. Let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create this simple yet irresistible dish.
INGREDIENTS
- 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (or 10 sticks): Cut into bite-sized pieces for the perfect cheesy snack.
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs: Adds a flavorful and crispy coating.
- 1 cup flour: Helps the egg mixture adhere to the cheese.
- 2 eggs: Binds the flour and bread crumbs to the cheese.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps to thin the egg mixture for even coating.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a bit of heat to the bread crumbs, if desired.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Take out a cutting board and cut your string cheese sticks into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 2:
- In a medium-sized bowl, add your eggs and whisk to break them up. Add the milk and whisk again to incorporate the two ingredients.
- Step 3:
- Set aside two additional bowls. Fill one with your flour and the next with your bread crumbs. Place the bowl with your eggs and milk mixture in the middle of that line, so that you now have three bowls in a row (flour, eggs, bread crumbs).
- Step 4:
- Take one piece of mozzarella. Dip it in the flour, then immediately in the egg mixture. Now, roll your cheese bite around in the bread crumbs. Continue to do this until you have all the pieces of cheese coated. You can place each finished piece on a plate once they are completed.
- Step 5:
- In a medium-sized skillet, heat your vegetable oil (about 2 inches high) to 350 degrees. (To test this, place a wooden spoon handle in the oil. If the bubbles are rolling on the handle, you're ready.)
- Step 6:
- Pull out a plate and line it with a paper towel.
- Step 7:
- Add 5-7 pieces into the oil for about 30 seconds. Make sure that you keep them separated so that they don't bond together!
- Step 8:
- Fry your mozzarella bites until they are golden brown (which should be at that 30-second mark). Using a slotted spoon, remove your pieces from the oil and place them on the paper towels.
- Step 9:
- Repeat this process with different batches until all of your bites are fried.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately with pasta sauce or just eat them by themselves.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Easy Fried Cheese Bites immediately while they are hot and crispy. Pair them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- If you want to add a bit of spice, sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the bread crumbs before coating the cheese bites.
- These cheese bites are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place the cheese bites in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F) before frying to achieve a golden and crispy coating.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet while frying the cheese bites to prevent them from sticking together and to maintain the oil temperature.
- For a different flavor, you can use different types of cheese or add some Italian seasoning to the bread crumbs.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using fresh mozzarella for a richer taste and better melting quality.
- Chef Jamie Oliver recommends adding a sprinkle of sea salt immediately after frying for extra flavor.
- Chef Nigella Lawson advises serving the cheese bites with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to cut through the richness.