Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. The mozzarella gives the bites their gooey texture, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, savory flavor.

2. Form the Bites:

Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. About 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of the mixture per ball should work well. Make sure to press the cheese together firmly so that the balls hold their shape.

3. Coat the Bites:

In a separate bowl, beat the egg until smooth. In another shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Take each cheese ball, dip it in the egg, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. The breadcrumbs will give the bites that crispy golden texture on the outside.

4. Cooking Options:

You can cook these bites in two ways, depending on your preference.

Option 1: Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated mozzarella bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You may want to flip them halfway through for even crispiness.

Option 2: Frying: For extra crispy, golden bites, you can fry them. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping in a small piece of breadcrumb—it should sizzle), carefully place the cheese balls into the oil, working in batches if needed. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the bites from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the cheesy Parmesan mozzarella bites are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven or skillet and allow them to cool for a minute or two. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic butter. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for added flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites

• Use Whole Milk Mozzarella: Whole milk mozzarella will give you that wonderfully melty, gooey texture that makes these bites so irresistible. Avoid using low-moisture mozzarella as it won’t melt as well.
• Chill the Cheese Balls: For best results, chill the formed cheese balls in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better and reduces the risk of them falling apart during cooking.
• Breadcrumb Variations: You can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy crust, or regular breadcrumbs for a finer, softer texture. You can also add some grated Parmesan directly to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra cheesy crunch.
• Season to Taste: While the Italian seasoning adds a nice herby flavor, feel free to experiment with other spices. Red pepper flakes will give the bites a spicy kick, or smoked paprika can add a nice depth of flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheesy bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. They also freeze well! Simply place the uncooked cheese balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Why These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites Are a Must-Try

Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer. They’re crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with savory flavors from the mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party or as a fun snack for your family, they’ll be gone in no time.

These bites are also super customizable, allowing you to add your own favorite seasonings and sauces to make them truly your own. They’re quick to make, easy to enjoy, and always delicious. Plus, with their cheesy goodness and satisfying crunch, they’re sure to please kids and adults alike!

Conclusion: The Perfect Cheesy Snack

When you want something cheesy, crispy, and totally satisfying, Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the way to go. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you bake or fry them, these cheesy bites are a delicious and simple snack that will have everyone coming back for more. So, grab some mozzarella and Parmesan, get cooking, and enjoy these cheesy delights today!