Easy Fried Cheese Bites Recipe

Introduction

Easy Fried Cheese Bites are a quick and delicious snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these cheesy treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (or 10 sticks)
• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut mozzarella string cheese into bite-sized pieces.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
3. Step 3: Set up your dipping stations with bowls of flour and bread crumbs next to the egg mixture.
4. Step 4: Coat each cheese piece first in flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally in bread crumbs.
5. Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F.
6. Step 6: Fry the coated cheese bites in batches for about 30 seconds until golden brown.
7. Step 7: Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately with dipping sauces or enjoy plain!

Tips & Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bread crumbs for a spicy kick.
• Try using different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for variety.
• For extra crispiness, double coat the cheese bites by repeating the egg and bread crumb steps.

Storage

Fried cheese bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?

Yes, cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack can be used, but make sure they melt well and are firm enough to hold shape when fried.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking during frying?

Make sure to coat the cheese pieces thoroughly with flour, egg, and bread crumbs. Chilling the coated bites before frying can also help them hold better.

Easy Fried Cheese Bites Recipe

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4.6 from 379 reviews

These Easy Fried Cheese Bites are crispy, golden on the outside with a gooey, melty mozzarella center. Perfect as a quick snack or appetizer, these bite-sized treats are coated in flavorful Italian bread crumbs and fried to perfection for a deliciously satisfying bite every time.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 30 cheese bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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Cheese Bites

• 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (or 10 sticks)
• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
• Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 cups or enough for a 2-inch depth in skillet)

Instructions

1. Prepare Cheese: Cut the mozzarella string cheese into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches in length to ensure even frying.
2. Mix Egg Wash: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth and fully combined; add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick if desired.
3. Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the egg wash, and one with Italian bread crumbs to create an assembly line for coating the cheese pieces.
4. Coat Cheese Bites: Dip each cheese piece first into the flour to lightly coat, shake off excess, then dip into the egg wash, and finally roll thoroughly in bread crumbs to form a crispy outer layer.
5. Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to a depth of about 2 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer to maintain proper frying temperature.
6. Fry Cheese Bites: Carefully add the coated cheese bites in batches to the hot oil, frying for about 30 seconds or until the coating turns golden brown and crisp. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid temperature drops.
7. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried cheese bites with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8. Serve: Serve the cheese bites immediately while warm and gooey, with your choice of dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli, or enjoy them plain.

Notes

• For best results, use fresh mozzarella string cheese and ensure oil is hot enough to prevent cheese leaking out.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder into the bread crumbs.
• You can prepare the coated bites ahead and freeze them; fry directly from frozen adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
• Ensure you do not overcook the bites as the cheese may leak out or become rubbery.
• Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for even frying and crisp coating.

Keywords: fried cheese bites, mozzarella snacks, crispy cheese, appetizer recipe, Italian bread crumbs, quick snack