Crispy Italian Cheese Bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Breadcrumbs & Cheese
01 -
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, 1 cup
02 -
Mozzarella, shredded, 1 cup
03 -
Panko crumbs, golden, 1 cup
→ Seasonings & Coating
04 -
2 large eggs
05 -
1/2 cup plain flour
06 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
1 teaspoon Italian herb mix
08 -
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
09 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ To Cook & Serve
10 -
Vegetable oil for frying
11 -
Marinara sauce of your choice for dipping
# Instructions:
01 -
In your first bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella. Crack the eggs into another bowl and stir until smooth. Blend the flour with the garlic powder, herbs, salt, and pepper in your last bowl.
02 -
Scoop about a tablespoon of your cheese mixture and, using your hands, gently roll it into a neat ball. Repeat until you've used all the mix.
03 -
Start by rolling a ball in the flour mix, then dip it into the eggs, and finally coat it well with the breadcrumb-cheese mix. Ensure it's fully covered.
04 -
In a deep pan, pour enough oil to create a 2-inch depth. Heat on medium until it hits 350°F (175°C). No thermometer? Toss a breadcrumb in—if it sizzles and browns in 30 seconds, you're good to go.
05 -
Gently drop 4-5 balls in the hot oil at a time. Fry for 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the outside is crisp and golden brown.
06 -
Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the fried bites and place them on paper towels to soak up extra oil. Serve warm with marinara on the side.
# Notes:
01 -
Crispy cheese snacks are a hit for game day or a party.
02 -
Shape and freeze the balls ahead of time to save prep later.