Fried Cheese Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can whip up these tasty bites in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of a crunchy crust and melted cheese appeals to all ages, making it a favorite at any event.
• Versatile: Pair them with various dipping sauces to suit different tastes.

Ingredients

• 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (approximately 10 sticks)
• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for added spice)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cheese: Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick into bite-sized pieces.
2. Set Up Dredging Station: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with Italian bread crumbs (add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bread crumbs if you prefer a spicy kick).
3. Coat the Cheese: Dredge each cheese piece in flour, dip into the egg mixture, and then roll in bread crumbs until fully coated. For an extra crispy exterior, repeat the egg and bread crumb steps.
4. Heat the Oil: In a medium-sized skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden, the oil is ready.
5. Fry the Cheese Bites: Carefully place a few coated cheese pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 30 seconds, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried cheese bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for varied flavors.
2. Seasoned Coating: Enhance the bread crumbs with grated Parmesan, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
4. Air Fryer Method: For a healthier alternative, prepare the cheese bites in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the coated cheese pieces for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftover fried cheese bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying?

Ensure each cheese piece is thoroughly coated, and consider double-coating by repeating the egg and bread crumb steps. Also, maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to create a quick, sealing crust.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can coat the cheese pieces ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. This can help the coating adhere better and reduce the chance of cheese leakage.

What dipping sauces pair well with fried cheese bites?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo are excellent choices.

Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?

Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated cheese bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent the cheese from oozing out.

Can I freeze the cheese bites before frying?

Absolutely. After coating, place the cheese bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the frying time.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, are ideal for frying these cheese bites.

How can I make the coating stick better to the cheese?

Pat the cheese pieces dry before coating, and ensure each piece is fully covered during each dredging step. Pressing the bread crumbs onto the cheese can also help the coating adhere.

Are there any low-fat alternatives for this recipe?

Baking or air frying the cheese bites instead of deep-frying can reduce the fat content. Additionally, using part-skim cheese can lower the overall fat content.

Can I use homemade bread crumbs?

Yes, homemade bread crumbs can be used and can add a unique flavor and texture to the cheese bites.

---

Print