Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites (Print version)
Crispy parmesan-coated mozzarella bites with a gooey center, made for parties, game night, or a snack plate with warm marinara.
# Ingredients:
For the bites
01 -
12 oz (340 g) low-moisture mozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 -
1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
03 -
2 large eggs, beaten
04 -
1 cup (85 g) panko breadcrumbs
05 -
1/2 cup (45 g) finely grated parmesan cheese
06 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 -
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For frying and serving
10 -
3 cups neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, for frying
11 -
1 cup (240 ml) warm marinara sauce, for dipping
12 -
2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes and pat dry with paper towels. Line a tray with parchment paper.
02 -
Place flour in one shallow bowl and beaten eggs in another. In a third bowl, mix panko, parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
03 -
Dip each mozzarella cube in flour, then egg, then the panko mixture. Dip again in egg and panko, pressing gently so the coating covers every side.
04 -
Set the coated bites on the lined tray and freeze for 30-45 minutes, until firm to the touch.
05 -
Heat oil in a heavy pot to 350°F. Fry the frozen bites in small batches for 60-90 seconds, turning once, until golden brown.
06 -
Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels. Sprinkle with parsley if using and serve hot with warm marinara sauce.
# Good to know:
01 -
Freeze before frying to reduce cheese leaks.
02 -
Cook in small batches so the oil temperature stays steady.
03 -
Serve hot for the best cheese pull.