Description
Delightful snack or appetizer with crispy coating and gooey cheese inside, perfect for parties or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prep ingredients: Shred mozzarella and parmesan if not pre-shredded. Pour panko breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl and season with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Finely chop fresh parsley if using.
- Form the cheese balls: Combine shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan in a bowl. If using parsley, stir it in. Take small portions of the cheese mixture (about walnut-sized) and roll them into compact balls between your palms.
- Bread the cheese balls: Roll each cheese ball thoroughly in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. If the cheese is too soft, freeze the balls for 10-15 minutes before breading.
- Cook the bites (Frying): Heat 2-3 inches of neutral oil to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy-bottomed pot. Fry the bites in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack.
- Cook the bites (Baking): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange breaded cheese balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and melted.
- Serve immediately while hot and gooey. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard.
Notes
These bites can be baked or fried for a crispy treat. Perfect for parties or cozy nights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg