These Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are cheesy little snacks that pack a great flavor punch! With crispy cheese on the outside and gooey mozzarella inside, they’re simply irresistible.
Perfect as a party treat or just for you on movie night! I can never make enough because they disappear in seconds! Just roll them up, fry them quick, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is crucial for that melty interior. If you’re seeking a lower-fat option, you could try part-skim mozzarella, though it may not melt quite as well.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. However, you can substitute Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: These add great texture. If you don’t have Italian bread crumbs, regular breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning will work fine. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Egg: This acts as a binder. If you’re vegan, you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) or even mashed banana for a different twist.
How Can I Get Extra Crispy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites?
To achieve delicious, crispy bites, follow these steps carefully:
- After mixing the mozzarella with the egg, ensure it’s well combined to hold everything together.
- When rolling in the breadcrumb mixture, press firmly but gently. This helps the coating stick better while frying.
- Double-coating by dipping each ball again in egg and breadcrumbs will provide that extra crunch.
- Make sure your oil is hot before adding the bites; this prevents them from absorbing too much oil and becoming soggy.
- Don’t crowd the pan while frying. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
Enjoy your crispy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites, and don’t forget that nice marinara sauce for dipping! They make the perfect snack for any occasion!
How to Make Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for frying. So, in total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Parmesan Mozzarella Bites in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Cheese and Egg:
Start by taking a mixing bowl. Add your shredded mozzarella cheese and crack the large egg into it. Use a fork or a spatula to mix the cheese and egg together until well bound. This will help the mixture hold its shape later!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried herbs, and add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir this until it’s beautifully combined.
3. Form the Bites:
Now, it’s time to make your bites! Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, take a portion of the mozzarella mixture and roll it into a bite-sized ball. Make as many as you can—you’re going to want more!
4. Coat the Bites:
Next, take each ball and roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the breadcrumbs stick nicely to the cheesy ball. If you want your bites to have an extra crispy layer, feel free to dip them again in the egg and roll in the breadcrumbs one more time!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in enough oil to cover the bottom generously. Heat over medium heat until the oil is hot but not smoking—about 350°F (175°C) is perfect if you have a thermometer!
6. Fry the Bites:
Add the bites to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
7. Drain the Excess Oil:
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the bites from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help soak up any excess oil, leaving you with crispy bites!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the bites warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. Get ready for everyone to love them!
Enjoy these crispy outside, gooey inside Parmesan Mozzarella Bites as a delicious appetizer or snack! You won’t be able to stop at just one!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella is traditional for its meltiness, you could experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor and texture slightly.
How Can I Make These Bites Gluten-Free?
To make these Parmesan Mozzarella Bites gluten-free, simply substitute the Italian-style breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers as an alternative!
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Bites?
Absolutely! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden. Just remember that baking may result in a slightly different texture compared to frying.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.