Mozzarella Fried Cheese Bites (Print)

Crispy, golden breaded mozzarella bites with a melty cheese center, perfect for dipping in warm marinara sauce.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut into 1-inch bite-size pieces
02 - 2-3 cups vegetable oil, for frying

→ For the Coating

03 - 2 large eggs, beaten
04 - 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
05 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - ½ teaspoon paprika
09 - ½ teaspoon salt

→ For Serving

10 - Marinara sauce, warmed for dipping
11 - Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Unwrap the mozzarella string cheese sticks and cut each one into 1-inch pieces. Place the cheese pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
02 - Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Mix the breadcrumb mixture thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
03 - Remove the cheese from the freezer. Working a few pieces at a time, dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten egg. Allow excess egg to drip off before rolling in the breadcrumb mixture. For a crispier coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
04 - Place breaded cheese bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other, and return to the freezer for 15-20 minutes.
05 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pan to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat over medium heat until it reaches 175°C (350°F). Test the oil by dropping in a breadcrumb; it should sizzle and turn golden within 20-30 seconds.
06 - In small batches of 4-6 pieces, fry the frozen cheese bites until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil.
07 - Transfer fried cheese bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Serve immediately with warmed marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Freezing the cheese before and after breading ensures the coating adheres and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly.
02 - Adding grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs enhances the flavor.
03 - For a baking option, lightly spray breaded cheese bites with cooking spray and bake at 220°C (425°F) for 8-10 minutes.

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