Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites (Print version)
Crispy Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites with a creamy, melty center, made for snacking, dipping, and easy party trays.
# Ingredients:
For the filling
01 -
1 cup (225 g) full-fat cottage cheese, drained
02 -
1 cup (110 g) shredded low-moisture mozzarella
03 -
1/4 cup (25 g) finely grated parmesan
04 -
1 large egg
05 -
1/3 cup (35 g) almond flour, plus more if needed
06 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 -
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For coating and serving
10 -
1 large egg, beaten
11 -
3/4 cup (60 g) crushed pork rind crumbs or gluten-free panko
12 -
Olive oil spray
13 -
1 cup (240 ml) warm marinara sauce, for dipping
14 -
2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Place the cottage cheese in a fine mesh strainer and press gently to remove excess whey. Let it sit for 5 minutes if it looks very wet.
02 -
Stir the drained cottage cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, almond flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until thick and scoopable.
03 -
Scoop tablespoon-size portions and roll into compact balls. Place on a lined tray and chill for at least 20 minutes.
04 -
Dip each chilled bite in beaten egg, then roll in pork rind crumbs or gluten-free panko. Press gently so the coating sticks.
05 -
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F. Spray the bites with olive oil and air fry in a single layer for 7-9 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp.
06 -
Let the bites rest for 2 minutes, then sprinkle with parsley if using. Serve with warm marinara for dipping.
# Good to know:
01 -
Use full-fat cottage cheese for the best texture.
02 -
Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes if you do not have an air fryer.
03 -
Chilling helps the bites hold their round shape.