Crispy Mozzarella Balls
Crispy Mozzarella Balls are golden, crunchy-coated cheese bites with a gooey melted center. They are quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for snacks, appetizers, or party food. This versatile recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to achieve a perfect crispy exterior and deliciously creamy interior that kids and adults alike will love.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 24 balls) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Cheese
- 8 oz block mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized cubes or balls
Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF version)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for GF)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Italian herbs (optional: basil, parsley, oregano)
Frying
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups depending on fryer size)
- Prepare the mozzarella: Cut the block of mozzarella cheese into uniform bite-sized cubes or use pre-formed mozzarella balls. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating stick better.
- Set up the breading station: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices.
- Coat the mozzarella balls: Roll each mozzarella piece lightly in flour for a dry surface. Then dip them into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage. Finally, press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly on all sides.
- Freeze before frying: Place the breaded mozzarella balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese leakage during frying.
- Fry to golden perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the frozen mozzarella balls in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Notes
- Freeze frozen breaded mozzarella balls at least 30 minutes before frying to reduce cheese leakage.
- Double coating by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps provides extra crunch and helps keep the coating secure.
- Use fresh oil for frying to avoid off-flavors and ensure crispness.
- Maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 365°F to prevent greasy or burnt balls.
- Dry mozzarella cheese thoroughly before coating to avoid slipping or splattering.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 mozzarella balls
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: mozzarella balls, crispy cheese balls, fried appetizers, snack recipes, party food, gluten-free snacks