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**Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites: A Deliciously Addictive Snack**
Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the perfect bite-sized snack for cheese lovers. These irresistible little treats combine gooey mozzarella cheese with a crispy Parmesan coating, making them a great appetizer for parties, game nights, or just for satisfying your cheese cravings. Served with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into how to make these cheesy bites at home and enjoy a little piece of cheesy heaven!
### Ingredients
To make these Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites, you’ll need:
– **8 ounces mozzarella cheese**, cut into 1-inch cubes
– **1 cup all-purpose flour**
– **2 large eggs**, beaten
– **1 cup panko bread crumbs**
– **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese**
– **1 teaspoon garlic powder**
– **1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Vegetable oil**, for frying
– **Marinara sauce or ranch**, for dipping
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### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Cheese Bites:**
– Cut the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes. You should have about 20-24 pieces.
2. **Set Up the Breading Station:**
– Place the flour in a shallow bowl.
– In another bowl, beat the eggs.
– In a third bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. **Bread the Cheese Cubes:**
– Coat each cheese cube in flour, shaking off any excess.
– Dip the floured cheese cube into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully covered.
– Finally, roll it in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick. Repeat with all the cheese cubes.
4. **Chill the Bites:**
– Place the coated cheese bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.
5. **Heat the Oil:**
– In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
6. **Fry the Cheese Bites:**
– Fry the cheese bites in small batches for 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.
– Remove the bites with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. **Serve:**
– Serve the Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites hot, with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
### Tips for Perfect Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
– **Freeze the Cheese Bites Before Frying**: This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out while frying.
– **Keep an Eye on the Oil Temperature**: If the oil is too hot, the bites will brown quickly without melting the cheese inside. Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature.
– **Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness**: For an even crispier bite, you can repeat the breading process by dipping the coated bites back into the egg and then the panko mixture again before freezing.
### Recipe Variations
There are many ways to customize Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites to suit your taste:
– **Add Some Spice**: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the breading mixture for a spicy kick.
– **Use Different Cheeses**: Try using cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
– **Herbed Coating**: Add more dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the panko mixture for extra flavor.
### Serving Suggestions
These cheesy bites are incredibly versatile and can be served with various dipping sauces and sides:
– **Classic Marinara Sauce**: The acidity of the marinara complements the richness of the cheese.
– **Ranch Dressing**: A cool and creamy ranch dip is always a hit.
– **Spicy Aioli**: For a little heat, mix mayonnaise with sriracha or hot sauce.
– **Side of Garlic Bread**: Serve with garlic breadsticks for a truly indulgent snack.
### Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
– **Storage**: Place the cooled cheese bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
– **Freezing**: To freeze, place the fried cheese bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
– **Reheating**: To reheat, bake the bites in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through. If frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the perfect combination of crunchy, gooey, and cheesy. The crispy panko-Parmesan coating provides a delicious contrast to the soft and melty mozzarella inside. These bites are easy to make and bring the best of cheese sticks and Parmesan crisps together into one delightful snack. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun appetizer, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
### Conclusion
Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are a fantastic appetizer that’s easy to prepare and always a hit. With a crispy coating and gooey cheese center, they’re a snack that’s sure to disappear fast. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce and share the cheesy goodness with friends and family. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a go-to for any occasion. So, grab some cheese and get frying—deliciousness awaits!