These Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites are crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside. Perfect for snacking or as a party treat!
I love how quick they are to make! Just coat the cheese, fry them up, and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce. Warning: they disappear fast! 🧀😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella gives the best melty goodness. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, try using part-skim mozzarella. For a twist, you can also use string cheese—just cut it into bite-sized portions!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a fantastic crunch. If panko isn’t available, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture may be a bit softer. Try mixing in some crushed cornflakes for added crunch!
Eggs: If you’re egg-free or vegan, a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can serve as a binding agent instead of eggs.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning are classic choices, but feel free to experiment! Smoked paprika or cayenne can add nice warmth, and nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch?
A crispy coating is key for these fried mozzarella bites! The double breading technique really helps achieve that. Here’s how:
- First, make sure to pat the cheese dry after slicing to avoid soggy bites.
- After dipping in flour, shake off any excess. This helps the egg stick better.
- Let the egg-coated bites sit for a moment before moving to the breadcrumbs; this ensures a better coating.
- For the panko layer, press gently but firmly to help the breadcrumbs adhere. A second dip in egg and panko creates that extra crunch.
Lastly, keep an eye on oil temperature. If it’s too hot, the bites will brown too quickly but remain cold inside. Use a thermometer or test with a breadcrumb to see if it sizzles!
Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese (block or balls), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water or milk
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 10-15 minutes for frying. Overall, you can expect this dish to come together in about 25-30 minutes, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese:
Start by slicing the mozzarella cheese into about ½ inch thick pieces. These bites should be perfect for dipping into your marinara sauce later, so make them bite-sized!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, add the flour for coating. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs with the water or milk until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This will give your bites extra flavor!
3. Bread the Mozzarella:
Take each piece of mozzarella and dip it first into the flour, lightly coating it and shaking off any excess flour. Then, dunk it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. Finally, press the mozzarella into the panko breadcrumbs, covering it fully. For an extra crunchy texture, repeat the dipping in the egg and panko one more time.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or on your Blackstone griddle, heat about 1-1.5 inches of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering and hot, around 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to have the right temperature to ensure even cooking.
5. Fry the Mozzarella Bites:
Carefully place the coated mozzarella bites into the hot oil in batches—be sure not to overcrowd the pan! Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Watch closely because if you fry too long, the cheese may start leaking out!
6. Drain and Garnish:
Once they’re golden brown and crispy, remove the bites from the oil and set them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Then, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color!
7. Serve:
Enjoy your mozzarella bites fresh and hot with warm marinara sauce for dipping. These are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delightful treat just for yourself!
Happy cooking and enjoy those delicious crispy bites!
FAQ for Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses such as provolone or cheddar. Just remember that softer cheeses may melt faster and can be trickier to fry without leaking.
What Should I Do If My Breading Isn’t Sticking?
If your breadcrumb coating isn’t sticking well, try lightly pressing the cheese into the breadcrumbs with your fingers. Ensuring the cheese is somewhat dry before starting the breading process can also help, as will the double breading technique.
How Can I Store Leftover Mozzarella Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, try placing them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again. Avoid microwaving to prevent them from getting soggy!
Can I Make These Mozzarella Bites Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bites in advance and store them uncooked in the fridge for a few hours. When you’re ready to serve, just fry them directly from the fridge for a quick and easy appetizer!
