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Fried Cheese Bites

Fried Cheese Bites
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Golden, crispy, and gooey Fried Cheese Bites that combine irresistible textures and bold flavors. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these bites are crunchy on the outside with melted cheese inside. Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and customizable to suit any taste, they are a crowd-pleasing treat ideal for parties or quick comfort food.

Ingredients

Cheese Selection

  • Firm or semi-soft cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda, cut into bite-sized cubes or sticks

Coating Station

  • Flour – lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, for dusting
  • Egg wash – beaten eggs to help coating stick
  • Bread crumbs – plain, panko, seasoned, or gluten-free, mixed with herbs or seasonings of choice

Seasonings & Oil

  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian herbs (optional)
  • Neutral oil with high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cheese: Cut your chosen cheese into bite-sized cubes or sticks with clean, even edges to ensure even frying and a perfect melt inside.
  2. Set Up the Coating Station: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with your preferred herbs or seasoning.
  3. Coat the Cheese: First dust the cheese pieces in flour, then dip them into the egg wash, and finally coat generously with bread crumbs. For an extra crispy crust, double-dip by repeating the egg and crumb step.
  4. Chill the Bites: Place the coated cheese bites on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better and reduces the risk of cheese leaking during frying.
  5. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the cheese bites in small batches for 1-2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Notes

  • Choose cheeses that melt well but hold shape, like mozzarella or asiago.
  • Maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for even cooking and crispy exterior.
  • Chill coated bites before frying to prevent cheese from oozing out.
  • Double coating with egg wash and bread crumbs gives extra crunch.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and texture.
  • Optional: bake at 400°F (205°C) for 15-20 minutes as a lighter alternative to frying.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; best fresh and crispy.
  • Freeze uncooked coated bites on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month; fry directly from frozen.
  • Reheat in hot oven or air fryer to revive crispness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried cheese bites, appetizer, snack, cheesy bites, party food, crispy cheese bites, gluten-free cheese bites

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/fried-cheese-bites/