Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites: A Delicious Snack for Any Occasion
If you’re in the mood for a cheesy, crispy, and savory snack, look no further than Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites! These bites are a perfect combination of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy coating that’s seasoned with just the right amount of garlic powder and oregano. These cheesy morsels are not only easy to make but incredibly satisfying to eat, making them perfect for parties, game nights, or just a quick snack when you’re craving something delicious.
Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a tasty side dish, Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Paired with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping, they’re a fun and delicious way to enjoy your favorite cheeses. Read on to discover how you can make these Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites in the comfort of your own home!
For even more cheesy inspiration, check out Cheesy Garlic Knots or Mini Pizza Puffs for more cheesy delights.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites | Crispy & Gooey Snack Recipe
- Total Time: 16-18 minutes
- Yield: 15-18 cheese bites (depending on size) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible! These bite-sized snacks are packed with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, combined with savory seasonings and lightly fried to golden perfection. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, and these cheesy bites will be the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Bites:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until you form a smooth batter.
2. Add the Cheese:
- Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the batter. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Form the Bites:
- Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop out small portions of the cheesy batter and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them on a tray or plate as you go.
4. Fry the Bites:
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be about 1-2 inches deep.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cheese balls to the pan in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Arrange the cheesy Parmesan mozzarella bites on a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Be careful when frying, as the cheese can sometimes ooze out. If you find it happens, you can try chilling the cheese balls for 10-15 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape better.
You can make these in the oven if you prefer baking them: Place the cheese balls on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add a bit of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes (per batch)
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying (can also be baked)
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 bites
- Calories: 210-270
- Sugar: 1-2g
- Sodium: 400-500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. You can also use a non-stick baking sheet if preferred.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This mixture will help bind all the dry ingredients together and create the perfect coating for your cheesy bites.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the wet egg and milk mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring constantly. Continue mixing until a smooth dough forms. You may need to use your hands to incorporate the ingredients fully.
5. Add the Cheese
Once the dough has formed, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. This will give your cheesy bites their melt-in-your-mouth cheese texture.
6. Form the Bites
Use your hands to roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. The mixture should make around 18-20 bites, depending on how large you make them.
7. Bake the Bites
Place the cheese bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t overcook or burn.
8. Garnish and Serve
Once the Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. If desired, sprinkle them with fresh chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Advanced Techniques
Frying for Extra Crispiness
If you’re craving an extra crispy texture, you can also fry these Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites instead of baking them. Heat a few inches of oil in a deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil reaches around 350°F (175°C), carefully drop in the cheese bites, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Note: If you decide to fry the bites, keep in mind that the mozzarella will melt quickly, so be sure to cook them in small batches to ensure they stay intact.
Air Fryer Option
For a healthier alternative, you can use an air fryer to cook these cheesy bites. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil. Arrange the Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy. The air fryer will give them a deliciously crispy exterior with less oil.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture will be slightly different from when they are fresh, but they will still taste delicious.
Reheating Leftovers
To reheat, place the Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites on a baking sheet and bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. For the crispiest results, you can pop them back in the oven or even the air fryer for a couple of minutes.
Freezing for Later
You can also freeze these bites for a later date. After baking or frying, allow the bites to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or air fryer directly from frozen for a quick snack.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Make sure to choose a gluten-free baking powder to ensure the recipe stays fully gluten-free. You might need to adjust the texture of the dough slightly by adding a bit more liquid if using a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free Version
If you’re following a dairy-free diet, you can swap the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese for dairy-free cheese alternatives. There are many plant-based cheese options available, so look for one that melts well and has a mild flavor. You can also make your own dairy-free mozzarella if you prefer.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version of Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. You may need to adjust the amounts slightly, as these flour substitutes absorb liquids differently.
FAQs About the Recipe
Q1: Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 2 months before baking.
Q2: How can I make these bites spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dough. You can also incorporate jalapeños or spicy pepperoni into the cheese mixture for extra spice.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan give these bites a classic flavor, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or provolone. Just make sure the cheese melts well to maintain the gooey texture inside the bites.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are an absolute treat, perfect for any occasion. With their crispy, cheesy exterior and gooey, savory interior, they’re a delightful snack for pizza lovers. Whether you bake, fry, or air fry them, they’re easy to make and customizable to your tastes.
Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as an appetizer, or just snacking with your family, these cheesy bites will definitely become a favorite in your household. Pair them with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping, and you’re ready to enjoy an irresistible cheesy experience!