Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites

Gooey, golden, and ready in 20 minutes, the ultimate party snack

Crispy outside, molten cheese inside, these quick mozzarella-parmesan bites disappear before they cool.

Why You’ll Love It

• Best appetizer recipes for parties, game nights, or cozy evenings.
• Ready in under 20 minutes — perfect for easy cooking or last-minute guests.
• Combines two cheeses for the best of both worlds: mozzarella stretch + parmesan flavor.
• Homemade snacks that feel gourmet but use everyday ingredients.
• Ideal party snacks that women love to serve with a glass of wine or mocktail.
• Explore more savory bites from Spoon Recipes:
  Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
  Pumpkin Shaped Baked Brie
  Buffalo Chicken Dip Oven

Ingredients (notes only)

Cheese Base

• Fresh mozzarella: small cubes or mini balls (bocconcini).
• Parmesan cheese: grated, for salty flavor and crisp edges.
• Cream cheese (optional): adds body if baking instead of frying.

Coating

• Flour: helps breading stick.
• Eggs: for binding.
• Breadcrumbs (panko or Italian): crunch factor.
• Seasoning: garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.

Oil

• Neutral oil (sunflower, canola) for frying, or spray oil for baking/air fryer.

Optional Finish

• Chopped parsley, crushed red pepper, or a drizzle of honey for a trendy sweet-salty twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep cheese: Cut mozzarella into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with paper towels (important to avoid splatter).
2. Set up breading station: 3 bowls — flour (1), beaten eggs (2), seasoned breadcrumbs + parmesan (3).
3. Coat cheese: Roll each cube in flour, dip in egg, then in breadcrumb mixture. Press gently.
4. Chill: Place on tray; refrigerate 10 minutes to firm up.
5. Cook your way:
   • Fry: Heat oil to 350°F / 175°C. Fry 5–6 pieces at a time for 30–45 seconds per side until golden.
   • Air fry: Spray with oil; cook 400°F / 200°C for 7–8 minutes, turning halfway.
   • Bake: Brush with oil; bake 425°F / 220°C for 10–12 minutes until bubbly.
6. Serve: Sprinkle extra parmesan, parsley, and a pinch of chili. Serve hot with marinara or honey mustard dip.

Pro Tips

• Double coat for extra crunch: repeat egg + breadcrumbs once more.
• Keep it cool: Chill before cooking to prevent cheese from leaking out.
• Small batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer; they need airflow to crisp.
• Pair smart: Try with tomato sauce, pesto, or sweet chili glaze.
• Make-ahead win: Freeze breaded bites raw — bake or air fry straight from frozen.

Variations

• Italian flair: Add basil and oregano to the crumbs.
• Spicy bites: Mix chili flakes or cayenne into coating.
• Truffle version: Drizzle truffle oil after baking for an upscale appetizer.
• Party snacks: Stack on toothpicks with cherry tomatoes and basil.
• Easy snacks: Skip frying — air fry in one batch for less cleanup.

How to Serve

• Arrange on a platter with small dipping bowls (marinara, ranch, pesto).
• Perfect for Закуски Для Вечеринок (party appetizers) and Appetizer snacks tables.
• Pair with mocktails or sparkling water for a girls’ night touch.

Make Ahead & Storage

• Refrigerate: Cooked bites keep 3 days in airtight container.
• Freeze (uncooked): Up to 2 months; fry or air fry directly from frozen.
• Reheat: Air fryer 375°F / 190°C 4–5 minutes or oven 400°F / 200°C 8 minutes.

FAQs

How do I stop the cheese from leaking?
Chill bites before cooking and double coat with crumbs.

Can I use string cheese?
Yes! Cut into pieces and freeze for 10 minutes before coating.

What’s the best dip?
Warm marinara, ranch, or honey mustard — sweet balances the salty bite.

Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes. Brush lightly with oil and bake 10–12 minutes until crisp.

Simple Nutrition Table (estimate per 5 bites)

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 18 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 380 mg
  Estimates only; varies by cheese type and coating method.