Cheesy, Chewy Parmesan & Mozzarella Bites

If you love cheesy, gooey goodness, then these Cheesy, Chewy Parmesan & Mozzarella Bites are going to become your new favorite snack! Think of it as the ultimate cheesy bite-sized treat that you can’t stop popping into your mouth. Crispy on the outside with a warm, stretchy mozzarella center, these bites are perfect for any occasion, from game day snacks to a fun appetizer at a dinner party. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll disappear in no time!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy, Chewy Parmesan & Mozzarella Bites

Irresistibly Cheesy

The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella gives these bites the perfect blend of sharp, salty, and creamy flavor. The mozzarella is especially fun because of its stretchiness, making every bite that much more satisfying.

Golden & Crispy

These little bites are coated in a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb mixture, which gives them a lovely crunch on the outside, while keeping the inside nice and cheesy. The contrast between the crispy exterior and melty interior is absolutely irresistible!

Simple to Make

You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up these bites. With just a few ingredients, they come together quickly and easily. You’ll be able to make these even on your busiest days.

Customizable

If you’re a fan of garlic, or perhaps want a little heat, you can add minced garlic or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can even experiment with different cheeses if mozzarella and Parmesan aren’t your thing!

Ingredients for Cheesy, Chewy Parmesan & Mozzarella Bites

For the Bites:

• Mozzarella Cheese: The star ingredient! You’ll want to use fresh mozzarella for the ultimate meltiness and chewy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that sharp, savory kick that pairs perfectly with the mozzarella.
• Breadcrumbs: For coating the cheese, helping it achieve that crisp, golden outside.
• Eggs: To bind the breadcrumbs to the cheese and create a nice coating.
• Flour: Helps create a solid base before you dip in the egg wash and breadcrumbs.
• Garlic Powder: A touch of garlic flavor adds just the right seasoning to the mix.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning to bring out all the flavors.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cheese

1. Cut the mozzarella cheese into bite-sized cubes—aim for about 1-inch cubes.
2. Set up a breading station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Coat the Cheese

1. Take each mozzarella cube and coat it lightly in the flour first. This helps the egg wash stick.
2. Dip the floured cheese into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Roll the cheese in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Set each coated cheese bite aside on a plate.

Step 3: Fry the Bites

1. Heat vegetable oil or olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking—test by dropping a small breadcrumb in; it should sizzle right away.
2. Once the oil is ready, gently place the coated mozzarella bites into the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan to allow for even cooking. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Once they’re golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve these cheesy, crispy bites hot, with your favorite dipping sauce— marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli work wonderfully.
2. Enjoy while they’re still warm and gooey!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrate: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 18g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 20%
Iron: 6%
Potassium: 180mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Cheesy, Chewy Parmesan & Mozzarella Bites

Side Suggestions:

• Dipping Sauces: Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.
• Salads: A simple, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of these cheesy bites.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with some warm, crispy garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Additional Tips

• Baking Option: If you prefer baking these bites instead of frying them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and bake the coated cheese bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. You won’t get the exact same crispy texture, but it’s a healthier alternative!
• Freezing: Want to make these ahead of time? Once you coat the cheese cubes, you can freeze them for about 1 hour before frying. This helps them keep their shape while cooking!
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture, or add a bit of cayenne pepper to the egg wash for an extra kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?
A1: It’s best to use fresh mozzarella for these bites, as it melts perfectly and gives that chewy, gooey texture. Shredded mozzarella might melt too quickly and not hold its shape.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can bread the cheese bites, freeze them, and then fry them when you’re ready to serve. They’ll stay crisp and delicious.

Q3: What’s the best oil to fry these bites in?
A3: Vegetable oil or canola oil works well for frying because they have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the flavor of the cheese.

Q4: Can I bake these instead of frying them?
A4: Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, though they might not get as crispy as frying.

Q5: How can I keep the cheese from leaking out while frying?
A5: Make sure the coating is thick and well-sealed around the cheese. Freezing the breaded bites for 30 minutes before frying helps them hold their shape.

Q6: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A6: Yes! You could use provolone, gouda, or even a mix of cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.

Q8: Can I make these without the breadcrumbs?
A8: If you’re avoiding breadcrumbs, you could try using crushed crackers, panko, or a gluten-free breading option.

Q9: Can I use this recipe for other cheeses?
A9: Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses—just make sure they’re good at melting. Some good options include gouda, fontina, or even brie!

Q10: How long can I keep these in the freezer?
A10: You can freeze the uncooked bites for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to cook them, simply fry from frozen or bake as directed.

Conclusion

Cheesy, Chewy Parmesan & Mozzarella Bites are a must-try snack that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of crunchy breadcrumbs and gooey cheese is irresistible, and with just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a snack that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve them at a party or make them for yourself, these little bites of cheesy goodness will always be a hit!

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