Description
Crispy, golden cheese bites made with a delicious blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, seasoned perfectly and served with marinara sauce for dipping. Ideal for parties or a cozy snack!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to the cheese mixture. Stir until spices are well incorporated.
- Form the cheese mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Set up a breading station: In one shallow bowl, add flour; in a second bowl, whisk the eggs; and in a third bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs.
- Roll each cheese ball in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off excess flour.
- Dip the floured cheese ball into the beaten eggs, covering it completely.
- Roll the cheese ball in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick. Place the breaded balls back on the baking sheet.
- In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about half an inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the breaded cheese balls to the hot oil, frying in batches of 4-6 for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the cheese bites from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Arrange the cheese bites on a serving platter and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley.
- Serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Notes
- If the cheese mixture is too soft to form into balls, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
- For a healthier option, consider baking the cheese bites at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes