Easy Fried Cheese Bites
Ingredients:
8 oz block mozzarella cheese (or cheddar, pepper jack, etc.)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying
Marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce
Directions:
Prepare the Cheese:
Cut the mozzarella (or your preferred cheese) into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.
Set Up Dredging Station:
In one bowl, place the flour.
In another bowl, beat the eggs.
In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper.
Coat the Cheese Bites:
Roll each cheese cube first in the flour (shake off excess), then dip in the beaten egg, and finally roll in the panko breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each cube is fully coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
For an extra crispy bite, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
Freeze the Cheese Bites:
Place the coated cheese cubes on a baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cheese bites hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when frying.
Heat the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot, filling it about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry the Cheese Bites:
Carefully add the frozen cheese bites into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Remove the fried cheese bites with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve:
Serve immediately with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes freezing) | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 120-150 calories per serving (depending on cheese used) | Servings: 4-6