Description
These Easy Fried Cheese Bites are crispy, gooey, and perfect as a quick appetizer or party snack. Made with mozzarella or cheddar cubes coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, they offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or ranch for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese
- 8 oz block mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cut into ¾-inch cubes
Breading Station
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Other
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut the cheese into bite-sized ¾-inch cubes and place them in the freezer for 15–20 minutes. This step helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder and paprika.
- Bread the Cheese Cubes: Dip each cheese cube first into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the seasoned breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs once more.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pan or skillet and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy to ensure perfect frying temperature.
- Fry the Cheese Bites: Fry the cheese bites in small batches for 30 to 60 seconds or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and Season: Remove the fried bites with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with salt to taste while still hot.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your choice of marinara, ranch, or spicy dipping sauces for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture.
- These bites are best served hot to enjoy the gooey cheese center.
- You can also air-fry the cheese bites at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier alternative.
