Description
These crispy mozzarella bites feature a crunchy golden coating with a gooey, stretchy cheese center, making them the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering or game day.
Ingredients
- 12 sticks whole milk string cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Cut string cheese into bite-sized pieces and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in the third.
- Dredge frozen cheese pieces in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumb mixture. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for extra crunch.
- Place coated bites back on the tray and freeze for 15–20 more minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry cheese bites in small batches for 1–2 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Double freezing prevents cheese from leaking during frying.
- Try different cheeses for variety, such as cheddar or pepper jack.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- For a baked version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
