Crispy Fried Cheese Bites

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Crispy Fried Cheese Bites (Mozzarella or Cheddar)

Golden on the outside, melty on the inside, and dangerously addictive. These bite-sized cheese balls are perfect for birthday parties, game nights, or anytime you want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Servings

  • Makes: ~24–30 cheese bites

  • Serves: 6–8 people (or 3 if they’re really popular 😅)

 Ingredients

Cheese Bites

  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (or cheddar, or half & half)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko works best)

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley

  • Pinch of chili flakes

  • 1–2 tbsp grated Parmesan (extra flavor boost)

 Instructions

  1. Prepare the cheese

    • Roll shredded cheese into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each).

    • Freeze for 20–30 minutes — this helps prevent melting leaks.

  2. Set up breading station

    • Bowl 1: Flour

    • Bowl 2: Eggs (whisked)

    • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with spices

  3. Coat the cheese balls

    • Roll each ball in flour → egg → breadcrumbs.

    • For extra crunch, repeat egg + breadcrumbs once more.

  4. Heat oil

    • Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan or pot.

  5. Fry

    • Fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes, turning until golden brown.

    • Drain on paper towels.

  6. Serve hot

    • Best enjoyed immediately while the center is gooey.

 Description Notes

  • Crispy outside + molten center = instant hit

  • Mozzarella gives that classic stretch

  • Cheddar adds a bolder, sharper flavor

  • Freezing is the secret weapon for perfect results

 Tips for Perfect Cheese Bites

  • 🧊 Always freeze before frying — no explosions

  • 🧀 Use low-moisture cheese for best texture

  • 🔁 Double-coat for thicker crunch

  • 🍳 Air Fryer option: 390°F for 6–8 minutes (spray lightly with oil)

  • ❄️ Can be frozen breaded (uncooked) for up to 1 month

 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~210

  • Protein: 9g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Carbs: 12g

  • Calcium: ~20% DV

(Values vary based on cheese and oil used)

 Benefits

  • High in calcium and protein

  • Great make-ahead party snack

  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved

  • Customizable with different cheeses & spices

 Recipe Q & A

Q: Can I use cheddar only?
A: Yes! Use sharp or medium cheddar, but freeze well since it melts faster than mozzarella.

Q: Can I bake them instead?
A: Yes — bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.

Q: Best dipping sauces?
A: Marinara, ranch, honey mustard, spicy mayo, or BBQ sauce.

Q: Why did mine leak cheese?
A: Oil wasn’t hot enough, or they weren’t frozen long enough.

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