These crispy mozzarella bites are a cheesy delight! Made with gooey cheese and a crunchy outer layer, they are a favorite for snack time or as a tasty appetizer.
Honestly, they disappear fast! My family loves them, and they’re super fun to cook. Just fry them up and watch everyone smile as they ooze deliciousness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives a wonderful gooey texture. You can use pre-cut cheese sticks if that’s what you have handy. Just opt for low-moisture mozzarella to avoid sogginess when frying!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds an extra crunch. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, that works too, but for crunchier bites, stick with panko if you can. You can also explore gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re avoiding gluten.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is fantastic, but feel free to mix your own with dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have it on hand. I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Oil: Vegetable oil is great, but olive oil can also work. If you prefer frying for a lighter taste, you could use air-fryer methods or try baking these bites, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What’s the Best Way to Bread Mozzarella Without a Mess?
Breading can be a fun process, but it can also get messy! Here’s how to keep it simple:
- Set up your three bowls in a row: flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. This makes it easier to go from one to the next without creating a big mess.
- Use one hand for wet ingredients (egg wash) and the other for dry (flour and breadcrumbs). This technique helps keep things tidy.
- After coating, place the bites on a parchment-lined sheet to freeze. This makes them easier to fry without breaking apart!
Happy frying! 😊
Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese block or pre-cut mozzarella slices
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk or water
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil or frying oil (enough for shallow frying)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour to freeze the coated mozzarella before frying. Cooking will take an additional 10 minutes. So, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bites in about 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cheese:
Start by slicing your mozzarella cheese into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2-inch thick. If you’re using pre-cut mozzarella sticks, you can skip this step and move on to breading!
2. Set Up Dredging Stations:
Gather three shallow bowls and set them up for breading. In the first bowl, pour the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will make the breading process smooth and easy.
3. Bread the Mozzarella Bites:
Now for the fun part! Take a piece of mozzarella and start by coating it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the seasoned panko mixture until well covered. If you want an extra crispy bite, repeat the egg wash and panko coating one more time!
4. Freeze the Coated Cheese:
Place each coated mozzarella bite on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the freezer for about 1 hour. Freezing helps the cheese hold its shape while frying, preventing it from melting too quickly.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a heavy skillet or your Blackstone griddle, heat about 1-inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for frying—too low, and the bites will soak up oil; too high, and they might burn!
6. Fry the Mozzarella Bites:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add a few mozzarella bites to the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the bites for a little color! Serve them hot alongside marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Indulge in these tasty Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites—they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
FAQ for Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Can I Use Low-Fat Mozzarella Cheese?
While you can use low-fat mozzarella, keep in mind that it may not melt as gooey as full-fat mozzarella. This could affect the overall texture and flavor. For the best results, stick with regular mozzarella.
How Do I Store Leftover Mozzarella Bites?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Mozzarella Bites Vegan?
You can substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese that melts well. For the egg wash, use a mixture of plant-based milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Is it Necessary to Freeze Before Frying?
Yes, freezing is essential! It helps the cheese hold its shape during frying, ensuring it cooks evenly without oozing out too quickly. Aim for at least 1 hour in the freezer for optimal results.
