Fried Cheese Bites

Name: Fried Cheese Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg (beaten); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

By: Maria
Posted: 07/23/2025

What’s a party in your mouth?Fried Cheese Bites: What is the. Think mozzarella sticks, but way more fun and customizable. I remember the first time I had these, it was at a local street fair, and the line was ridiculously long. I almost gave up, but the aroma of warm cheese and crispy breading kept me hooked. After that first bite, I knew I had to recreate it at home. I know this recipe took a few tries, but trust me, it’s worth it. What are some easy side dishes to make?

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

What are fried cheese bites?

What exactly are these little bites of cheesy heaven? Imagine small cubes of cheese, coated in a crispy, seasoned breading, and then fried to golden brown. What is it like to eat a bite-sized explosion of warm, melted cheese? I usually use mozzarella cheese, but you can use any cheese you like. What are some good substitutes for cheddar, provolone, pepper jack? Think of it as a sophisticated version of mozzarella sticks, perfect for impressing your friends or family. Just treat yourself.

Why do I love this recipe?

Where do I start? There are so many reasons why you’re going to fall head over heels for these things.Fried Cheese Bites: What are someFirst off, the flavor is just amazing. What’s not to like about this savory cheese sandwich? Can be dipped in marinara sauce? What are some good sauces to serve with ranch?

What are some of the best recipes to make them? I’m talking, “busy weeknight, need-a-quick Plus, the ingredients are super budget-friendly. You probably already have most of them in your pantry and fridge. What I love most about t-shirts is how versatile they are. What are some good side dishes to serve as appetizers at a party? What is a good snack for cheese cravings? My kids devour them, and honestly, so do I.

I’ve tried other fried cheese recipes before, some with complicated batters or fancy cheese blends. What is this one? It’s simple, straightforward, and absolutely delicious. What is it like to make cheese curds? What are some of the best mozzarella sticks you’ve ever tried?

How do I make fried cheese bites?

Quick Overview

Making these Fried Cheese Bites: What are theIs it easier than you think? What is the best way to cube cheese, prepare a simple breading mixture, coat the cheese and fry. Is it safe to cook them up until golden brown and gooey? What’s the best part? It only takes about 15 minutes from start to finish! Don’t be intimidated by the frying part. How do I get crispy cheese? What is the best way to eat

Ingredients

For the Cheese:
* 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Make sure the cheese is firm and not too soft; otherwise, it will melt too quickly. I’ve found that low-moisture mozzarella works best.

For the Breading:
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs. Pankok is key for that extra-crispy texture. What is the best breadcrumbs to use in a pinch?
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a nice flavor boost to the breading) * 1/2 cup sliced Parmean.

For Frying:
* Vegetable oil, for frying. You’ll need enough oil to come about 1-2 inches up the sides of your pan.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prep Your Cheese

How do you slice mozzarella cheese into cubes? The more consistent the size, the more evenly they’ll cook.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne pepper. What are some ways to use), salt, and pepper In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using). How can I set up my breading station in advance?

Step 3: Bread the Cheese

Dredge each cheese cube in flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. If you boiled eggs, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. What are some good ways to coat breadcrumb with panko breadcrumbs? How do breadcrumbs adhere What is the double-breading process?

Step 4: Chill the Breaded Cheese

Place the breaded cheese cubes on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. How do you bake cheese in the oven? I know it’s tempting to skip this step, but trust me, it makes a big difference!

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, pour vegetable oil over the top. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping breadcrumb into it. If the oil turns golden brown in a few seconds, it is ready.

Step 6: Fry the Cheese Bites

Carefully add the chilled cheese cubes to the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcook the cheese. Is it possible to overcrow Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to maintain the oil temperature.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Remove the Fried Cheese Bites: What are someWith a slotted spoon, remove the oil from the dish and place them on soiled paper towels to drain any oil. What’s your favorite dipping sauce?

What should I serve it with?

These little Fried Cheese Bites: What are someAre incredibly versatile? I know it sounds crazy, but serve them alongside scrambled eggs for an ultimate breakfast. What is the comfort of

For brunch, arrange them artfully on a platter with fresh fruit and spicy mayo for an elegant presentation. Mimosas are in order! As a dessert, pair them with honey and sea salt. I know this sounds weird, but trust me, it works!

What are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them as a snack? Serve with a big bowl of marinara sauce and your favorite movie. What is the best way to unwind after a long day? My family loves dipping them in honey mustard or a spicy sriracha mayo. What is the perfect pairing?

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Fried Cheese Bites

Okay, here’s where I share all my secrets for making the absolute best Fried Cheese Bites.

Cheese Choice is Key: As I mentioned before, low-moisture mozzarella is your best bet. It melts beautifully without getting too watery. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a richer flavor.

Don’t Skip the Chill Time: I know it’s tempting to rush the process, but chilling the breaded cheese cubes is crucial for preventing them from melting too quickly in the hot oil. At least 30 minutes in the fridge is ideal.

Double Breading is a Must: That extra layer of breading really helps to seal in the cheese and create a super crispy exterior. Don’t skimp on this step!

Temperature Matters: Make sure your oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before adding the cheese bites. If the oil isn’t hot enough, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the cheese bites in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in soggy cheese bites.

Get Creative with the Breading: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the breading. Italian seasoning, chili powder, or even a little bit of lemon zest can add a unique flavor.

I’ve also tried making these in the air fryer, and they turned out pretty good! Just spray them with a little oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Okay, let’s be real, these Fried Cheese Bites are best served fresh and hot. But if you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving them at room temperature for more than a couple of hours, as the cheese can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the breaded cheese bites before frying. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to fry them, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: The best way to reheat these is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cheese bites for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes. Microwaving them is not recommended, as they will become soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. I’ve tested it with both almond flour and a rice flour blend, and both worked great! Just be sure to check the labels on all your ingredients to make sure they’re certified gluten-free.

Do I need to use panko breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their extra-crispy texture, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the texture won’t be quite as crunchy. You can also try using crushed crackers or even cornflakes for a unique twist!

Can I bake these instead of frying them?

While frying gives them the best texture, you can bake them for a healthier option. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version, but they’ll still be delicious! I spray them with a little olive oil before baking to help them crisp up.

What kind of dipping sauces go well with these?

The possibilities are endless! Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy mayo, sweet chili sauce, or even a homemade pesto. Get creative and find your favorite dipping sauce!

Can I use different kinds of cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella is my go-to, but you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, provolone, pepper jack, or even a combination of cheeses. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as some cheeses melt faster than others.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it: my recipe for the best Fried Cheese Bites ever! I truly hope you give these a try. They’re easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re a fun way to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different flavors and seasonings. I promise, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your household. If you’re looking for more fun appetizer recipes, be sure to check out my blog for other cheesy delights and tasty snacks. Happy frying, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any fun variations, be sure to share them too!