These crispy mozzarella bites are perfect for sharing! They are tender on the inside and have a golden, crunchy coating on the outside. Deliciously cheesy bites that everyone loves!
Making these is a breeze! Just dip the mozzarella in the batter, fry until golden, and get ready for a cheesy treat. Trust me, they won’t last long at your next gathering! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella: This is the star of the dish! Fresh mozzarella gives that gooey, melty texture. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, string cheese works as a good alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the bites a crispy texture. If you’re out of panko, use regular breadcrumbs, but add a bit of extra seasoning for a flavor boost.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you prefer, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Eggs: They help the coating stick. If you’re vegan or allergic to eggs, you can substitute with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons of water per egg. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Mozzarella Bites?
The key to crispy mozzarella bites lies in the preparation and frying technique. Here’s what to do:
- Dry the Cheese: Pat the mozzarella slices with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps prevent a soggy coating.
- Chill After Breading: Letting the coated bites chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the breading stay intact while frying.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. This ensures the outside crisps up quickly while keeping the inside gooey.
- Batch Frying: Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
By following these steps, you’ll get that perfect crunchy coating with a cheesy, melty center. Enjoy!
How to Make Crispy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Bites:
- 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk or water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the fridge. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes frying, so in total, plan for approximately 1 hour before enjoying these crispy bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Slices:
Start by patting the mozzarella slices dry with paper towels. This step is important as it removes excess moisture, helping the coating to stick better during frying.
2. Set Up a Dredging Station:
Next, set up three shallow bowls: In the first, place the flour; in the second, whisk together the eggs and milk (or water); and in the third, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat Each Mozzarella Slice:
Take each slice of mozzarella and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture until each piece is well coated. For an extra crunchy texture, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for double breading.
4. Chill the Coated Mozzarella Bites:
Once all the cheese slices are coated, place them on a plate and chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the breading adhere better and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.
5. Heat the Oil for Frying:
In a deep skillet or on a Blackstone griddle, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough, as this will help achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
6. Fry the Mozzarella Bites:
Carefully fry the mozzarella bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 1-2 minutes per side. Once done, remove them and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the crispy mozzarella bites, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve them immediately with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy treat!
FAQ for Crispy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh mozzarella for that gooey texture, but if you use frozen, be sure to fully thaw and pat it dry before breading. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking properly!
How Do I Store Leftover Mozzarella Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but consider adding a bit more seasoning for flavor. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or cracker crumbs can also work for that crispy texture.
Can I Make These Mozzarella Bites in the Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the bites lightly with cooking spray. Air fry them in batches for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
