Description
Deliciously crispy and gooey Fried Cheese Bites made by breading and frying cubes of mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these bites are seasoned with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs, then fried to golden perfection and served warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Bites
- 1 lb block of cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix), cut into 1-inch cubes
Breading Station
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese bites: Cut your block of cheese into 1-inch cubes and set aside to get ready for breading.
- Set up the breading station: Arrange three bowls – one with all-purpose flour, a second with beaten eggs, and a third with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the cheese cubes: First, dip each cheese cube into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.
- Freeze the cheese bites: Place the breaded cheese cubes on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
- Heat the oil: Pour enough vegetable or canola oil into a large frying pan to cover the cheese bites. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), tested by sizzling a small piece of bread to golden in 30 seconds.
- Fry the cheese bites: Fry the cheese cubes in batches without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, turning to brown all sides evenly until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the fried cheese bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded cheese bites before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents excessive melting.
- Use a thermometer to keep oil temperature steady at 350°F for perfect crispiness without sogginess.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Choose cheeses that melt well like mozzarella or cheddar for gooey interiors.
- Handle the cheese bites carefully to avoid the breading from falling off.
