Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Cheesy: The gooey mozzarella paired with a crispy Parmesan crust makes for a mouthwatering snack.
- Quick and Easy: A simple recipe that’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with seasonings or dipping sauces to personalize these bites.
Ingredients
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese sticks or fresh mozzarella balls
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying (or use an air fryer for a lighter option)
Directions
1. Prep the Cheese:
- Cut mozzarella sticks into bite-sized pieces or pat dry fresh mozzarella balls.
2. Set Up Breading Station:
- In one bowl, mix flour with salt and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and oregano.
3. Coat the Cheese:
- Dredge each mozzarella piece in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Cook the Bites:
- For Frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the mozzarella bites for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- For Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bites in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve:
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 5-10 minutes
- Total time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
- Baking Option: Bake the bites in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for a lighter version.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze before cooking, then fry or air fry directly from frozen for a quick snack later.
Conclusion
Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are a simple yet irresistible snack with a crispy exterior and a gooey cheesy center. Whether served as an appetizer or a fun snack, these bites are guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering!µ
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Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are a delicious snack or appetizer featuring gooey mozzarella cheese coated in a crispy, golden Parmesan crust. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make bites are full of flavor and offer the perfect balance of creamy cheese and crunchy texture.
Ingredients
12 oz mozzarella cheese sticks or fresh mozzarella balls
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking oil for frying (or use an air fryer for a lighter option)
Instructions
-
Prep the Cheese:
-
Cut mozzarella sticks into bite-sized pieces or pat dry fresh mozzarella balls.
-
-
Set Up Breading Station:
-
In one bowl, mix flour with salt and pepper.
-
In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
-
In a third bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and oregano.
-
-
Coat the Cheese:
-
Dredge each mozzarella piece in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
-
-
Cook the Bites:
-
For Frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the mozzarella bites for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
-
For Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bites in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
-
-
Serve:
-
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
-
Notes
Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
Baking Option: Bake the bites at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for a lighter version.
Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze before cooking for a later snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Frying, Air Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
