Crispy Fried Cheese Wontons
Crispy Fried Cheese Wontons are a delicious appetiser featuring golden, crunchy wonton wrappers filled with gooey melted mozzarella cheese and optional savoury pepperoni, ham, or bacon. These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and perfect for parties, game days, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a cheesy snack. Served with your favourite dipping sauce, they deliver a satisfying combination of crispy texture and rich, melty goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Wontons
- 20–24 wonton wrappers
- 8 oz (225 g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small sticks or cubes
- ¼ cup finely diced pepperoni, ham, or cooked bacon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional Dipping Sauces
- Marinara sauce
- Pizza sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Sweet chili sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, pepperoni (or ham/bacon if using), and Italian seasoning. Mix gently.
2. Assemble the Wontons
Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the centre. Brush the edges lightly with beaten egg. Fold the wrapper into a rectangle or triangle, pressing firmly around the edges to seal completely. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
3. Heat the Oil
Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the Wontons
Carefully place 4–6 wontons into the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Drain and Serve
Transfer the fried wontons to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favourite dipping sauce.
Description
These crispy cheese wontons combine the irresistible crunch of fried wonton wrappers with a rich, cheesy filling. The mozzarella melts beautifully inside while the seasoned wrapper becomes golden and crisp. Optional pepperoni or bacon adds a pizza-inspired flavour that makes them even more addictive. They are easy to customise and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Servings
- Makes: 20–24 wontons
- Serves: 6–8 people as an appetizer
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Wonton)
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Calcium: 60mg
Nutrition values are approximate and vary depending on filling ingredients and frying method.
Health Benefits
Source of Protein
Mozzarella cheese provides protein that helps support muscle maintenance and repair.
Calcium-Rich
Cheese contains calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
Portion-Control Friendly
Their small size makes it easy to serve and manage portions.
Customizable Ingredients
You can add vegetables, lean meats, or lower-fat cheeses to suit your nutritional preferences.
Notes
- Whole milk mozzarella produces the best melt and flavour.
- Keep wonton wrappers covered with a damp towel while assembling to prevent drying out.
- Ensure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Tips for Success
- Chill assembled wontons for 10–15 minutes before frying to help them stay sealed.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Do not overfill the wrappers.
- Fry in small batches for maximum crispiness.
- For a lighter option, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the wontons and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze uncooked wontons on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella is ideal for its stretch and melt, but cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses also work well.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, brushing lightly with oil before baking.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes to restore crispiness.
These crispy fried cheese wontons are crunchy on the outside, wonderfully cheesy on the inside, and perfect for sharing. Whether served as an appetiser, snack, or party food, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly from the table.