These crispy Blackstone fried mozzarella bites are a cheesy snack lovers’ dream! Each bite is perfectly golden and oozing with delicious mozzarella.
Who doesn’t love cheese, right? I can’t resist sneaking a few while they’re hot. Just serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra yumminess!
Making these bites is super fun and easy! Just coat the mozzarella, fry them up, and enjoy. They’re perfect for sharing or just for you—no judgment here! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella: This is the star of the show! Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt and flavor. If you’re looking for a firmer option, low-moisture mozzarella works too, but the texture will differ a bit.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light and airy crunch to your bites. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t have quite the same texture.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder enhance the flavor. You can switch with other spices like paprika or Italian seasoning based on your preference or mood.
Marinara Sauce: While marinara is classic, you can pair these bites with ranch, garlic aioli, or even barbecue sauce for a different twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch?
The key to achieving that satisfying crunchy crust comes down to proper breading and frying. Here are my tips:
- Chilling the cheese before breading is crucial. It prevents the cheese from leaking out when frying.
- Don’t rush the breading process! Make sure each piece is well-coated in flour, egg, and panko.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F). If it’s too cool, your bites will soak up more oil, making them greasy.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding your pan lowers the oil temperature and leads to soggy bites.
Following these steps will ensure you have perfectly crispy mozzarella bites every time!
Crispy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices or rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling the cheese and about 10 minutes for frying. In total, you’ll spend around 55 minutes from start to finish, but it’s well worth the wait for these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese:
Start by cutting the mozzarella into slices about 1/2 inch thick. Lay them out on a parchment-lined tray and pop them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the cheese firm up, preventing it from melting too quickly while frying.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs together with the water. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. This will give your mozzarella bites an extra flavor boost!
3. Bread the Mozzarella:
Take the chilled mozzarella slices out of the freezer. Dredge each slice in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any drips to fall off, and finally coat it well with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy texture, you can double dip by repeating the egg wash and breadcrumb steps.
4. Chill Again to Set the Coating:
Transfer the breaded mozzarella bites back onto a baking sheet and place them in the fridge for another 15-20 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better while frying!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). Make sure there is enough oil to fully cover the mozzarella bites when frying.
6. Fry the Mozzarella Bites:
Fry the coated mozzarella bites in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your crispy fried mozzarella bites on a serving plate, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!
Now you’re all set to impress your family and friends with these delightful snacks. Happy frying!
FAQ for Crispy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Can I Use Low-Moisture Mozzarella Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use low-moisture mozzarella if you prefer! However, fresh mozzarella gives the best melt and creamy texture. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might differ slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make these bites gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. They will be just as delicious!
How to Store Leftover Mozzarella Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What Can I Serve Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you want to mix things up, try serving these bites with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha sauce for a kick. They’re versatile and can pair well with many dips!
