Sometimes the best snacks are the simplest. These cheesy Parmesan mozzarella bites are golden and crispy on the outside, with gooey melted mozzarella in the center. They’re quick to make, easy to serve, and always disappear fast at parties, game nights, or family gatherings.
Whether you’re planning holiday appetizers or just want a fun snack to share, this recipe is a go-to that never fails.
Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Bites
- Easy to Make – Just a few pantry staples and cheese.
- Crowd-Friendly – Perfect for game day, parties, or a casual night in.
- Crispy & Gooey – Crunchy Parmesan coating with a melty mozzarella center.
- Kid-Approved – A snack that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese, cut in half)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Oil for frying
Optional for serving: Marinara sauce or ranch for dipping
Instructions
- Prep the cheese. Cut mozzarella sticks in half and freeze for 30 minutes (helps them hold shape while frying).
- Set up breading station. Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a third.
- Coat the cheese. Roll each mozzarella piece in flour, dip into egg, then coat with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
- Heat oil. In a deep skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry until golden. Fry cheese bites in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm. Pair with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Success
- Double coat for crunch. A second dip in egg and breadcrumbs makes the coating extra crispy.
- Freeze before frying. Prevents cheese from melting too quickly in the oil.
- Bake instead of fry. For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden.
Variations
- Spicy bites: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
- Herb twist: Fresh parsley or basil in the coating adds extra flavor.
- Mini version: Cut mozzarella into bite-sized cubes for smaller appetizers.
Serving Ideas
Serve these Parmesan mozzarella bites with marinara, ranch, or even garlic aioli. They’re perfect as finger food for parties, after-school snacks, or alongside a pasta dinner.
Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut mozzarella sticks in half and place in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- Set up breading station with flour in one bowl, eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a third.
- Roll each mozzarella piece in flour, dip in egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the mozzarella bites in small batches for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.
Nutrition
Notes
From your stove to our hearts
share your delicious take!Can I make mozzarella bites ahead of time?
Yes. You can bread the cheese bites, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until ready to fry. Fry straight from frozen for best results.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
What kind of mozzarella works best?
String cheese (mozzarella sticks) is easiest to work with since it holds its shape well. Fresh mozzarella is too soft and may melt too quickly.
How do I keep the cheese from leaking out while frying?
Freezing the cheese sticks before frying and double-coating them in breadcrumbs helps prevent the cheese from oozing out.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes! Place breaded mozzarella bites in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes until golden. Lightly spray with oil for extra crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Parmesan mozzarella bites are the kind of snack that makes people gather around the plate. Crisp, gooey, and endlessly satisfying, they’re easy enough for a weeknight treat and impressive enough for any party spread.
Give them a try this week and see how quickly they disappear.