Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these fried mozzarella bites are a crowd-pleaser! Using the Blackstone griddle makes them super easy and fun to make.
Get ready for cheesy goodness! I love serving these bites with marinara sauce for dipping. Perfect for movie nights or snack time—who can resist cheese, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella works best, but you can also use mozzarella sticks. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, reduced-fat mozzarella can be used, though it may not melt as nicely.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These provide a light, crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they create a denser coating. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Eggs: They help the breading stick well. If you need an egg substitute, try using a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning make a great flavor combo. Feel free to spice it up with some cayenne pepper or paprika if you enjoy a bit of heat!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Fried Mozzarella Bites?
Frying can be tricky. Here are some tips for getting those bites nice and crispy:
- Make sure your griddle is preheated and the oil is hot before adding the mozzarella bites. A quick way to test the heat is by dropping a few breadcrumbs in; they should sizzle right away.
- Use a shallow layer of oil; about 1/4 inch is perfect. This allows for even frying on all sides without soaking the bites in oil.
- Flip carefully with a spatula to avoid breaking the coating. Let each side cook for about 1.5 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Don’t overcrowd the griddle; frying in batches ensures even cooking and crispness.
- Draining on paper towels after frying is essential to remove any excess oil, keeping your bites light and not greasy!
Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Bites:
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese block or mozzarella sticks, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Frying:
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola) for frying on the Blackstone griddle
- For Garnishing and Dipping:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty snack option! You’ll have delicious fried mozzarella bites ready to enjoy in about 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Griddle:
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, pour in enough oil to create a shallow frying layer, roughly 1/4 inch deep. This oil will help get those mozzarella bites perfectly crispy!
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
While the griddle heats, prep your breading stations. In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until combined. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Mozzarella Bites:
Take each piece of mozzarella and dip it first in the flour, coating it completely. Next, dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s well-covered. Finally, dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned panko crumbs. For an extra crispy bite, dip it back into the egg wash and then into the panko again for a double coat!
4. Fry the Bites:
Carefully place the breaded mozzarella bites onto the hot griddle. Fry them for about 1.5 to 2 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip them, so you don’t break the coating.
5. Drain and Garnish:
Once they are cooked, transfer your delicious fried mozzarella bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them nice and light!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your mozzarella bites with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy these cheesy delights immediately for the best taste and texture!
This easy recipe gives you crispy, golden fried mozzarella bites that are perfect for snacking or serving as appetizers. Using the Blackstone griddle makes the process effortless and rewarding!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen mozzarella, but be sure to thaw it completely before breading. Thaw overnight in the fridge or place the mozzarella in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before breading to prevent sogginess.
How Do I Store Leftover Mozzarella Bites?
Store any leftover fried mozzarella bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Mozzarella Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mozzarella bites up to the frying step and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours. When you’re ready to eat, simply fry them according to the recipe instructions.
What Should I Serve with Fried Mozzarella Bites?
These tasty bites pair perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping, but you can also try them with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a tangy buffalo sauce for a delicious variation!
