Description
These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with savory flavor. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or anytime you crave a quick, crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 7 oz mozzarella cheese, block style, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 25 pieces)
- 2 oz parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp extra grated parmesan cheese
- Olive oil spray or vegetable oil (for baking or frying)
- Optional: Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping
Instructions
- Set out three shallow bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and extra parmesan.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or prep your air fryer basket.
- Slice mozzarella into 1-inch cubes (about 25 pieces). Set aside grated parmesan for coating and filling.
- Roll each mozzarella cube in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip floured cube into beaten egg, covering completely.
- Roll in seasoned breadcrumb-parmesan mix, pressing gently so the coating sticks. Repeat for all cubes. For extra crunch, double dip: egg and breadcrumb again.
- Place coated bites on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket, spaced apart. Spray with a light mist of olive oil or brush with vegetable oil for a golden finish.
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden, turning halfway for even browning. Cheese should be gooey and coating crispy.
- Air fryer: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking basket halfway. Cheese will be molten and coating crunchy.
- Frying: Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry bites in batches for 1-2 minutes until deep golden. Drain on wire rack or paper towels.
- Let bites cool 2-3 minutes (they’re molten inside!). Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra crunch, double coat the bites in egg and breadcrumbs. Freeze mozzarella cubes for 15 minutes before coating to prevent cheese from leaking. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations work well. Serve hot for best texture; leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 65
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Protein: 4
Keywords: cheese bites, mozzarella, parmesan, party snack, appetizer, easy recipe, baked cheese, air fryer, finger food, kid friendly