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Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites - Crispy, Gooey, and Crowd-Pleasing

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Low-moisture mozzarella (block or string cheese), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • All-purpose flour
  • Eggs
  • Plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch)
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Neutral oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut) or cooking spray for air fryer
  • Optional dips: marinara sauce, ranch, spicy aioli, or pesto

Method
 

  1. Prep the cheese: Cut low-moisture mozzarella into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove surface moisture. Place the cubes on a plate and set aside.
  2. Set up breading stations: In one shallow bowl, add 1/2 cup all-purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk 2 large eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Bread the bites (first pass): Toss the mozzarella cubes in the flour to coat, shake off excess, dip in the egg, then roll in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Press lightly so the coating adheres.
  4. Double-dip for extra security: For best results, dip the coated cubes back into the egg and then into the breadcrumb mixture once more. This double coating helps prevent leaks.
  5. Chill: Arrange the coated bites on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes. This quick chill firms them up and keeps the cheese from escaping during cooking.
  6. Choose your cooking method: Deep- or shallow-fry: Heat oil to 350–365°F (175–185°C). Fry in small batches for 1–2 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown. Transfer to a rack or paper towel to drain. Sprinkle lightly with salt while hot.
  7. Air fry: Preheat to 380°F (193°C). Spray the basket and the bites with cooking spray. Air fry 5–7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crisp and golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid bursting.
  8. Oven-bake (best for larger batches): Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Place the bites on a lined baking sheet, spray or brush with oil, and bake 10–12 minutes, flipping once, until golden.
  9. Serve: Plate immediately with warm marinara, ranch, or your favorite dip. Enjoy while the centers are still hot and melty.