EASY FRIED CHEESE BITES

If you’re craving a delicious snack or appetizer, look no further than these easy fried cheese bites. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of crispy, gooey cheese bites that are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz mozzarella string cheese (or 10 sticks)
• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions:

1. Take out a cutting board and cut your string cheese sticks into bite-size pieces.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, add your eggs and whisk to break them up. Add the milk and whisk again to incorporate the two ingredients.
3. Set aside two additional bowls. Fill one with your flour and the next with your bread crumbs. Place the bowl with your eggs and milk mixture in the middle of that line, so that you now have three bowls in a row (flour, eggs, bread crumbs).
4. Take one piece of mozzarella. Dip it in the flour, then immediately in the egg mixture. Now, roll your cheese bite around in the bread crumbs. Continue to do this until you have all the pieces of cheese coated. You can place each finished piece on a plate once they are completed.
5. In a medium-sized skillet, heat your vegetable oil (about 2 inches high) to 350 degrees. (To test this, place a wooden spoon handle in the oil. If the bubbles are rolling on the handle, you’re ready.)
6. Pull out a plate and line it with a paper towel.
7. Add 5-7 pieces into the oil for about 30 seconds. Make sure that you keep them separated so that they don’t bond together!
8. Fry your mozzarella bites until they are golden brown (which should be at that 30-second mark). Using a slotted spoon, remove your pieces from the oil and place them on the paper towels.
9. Repeat this process with different batches until all of your bites are fried.
10. Serve immediately with pasta sauce or just eat them by themselves!

Tips:

• Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve crispy bites without them becoming too greasy.
• Work quickly when coating the cheese bites to prevent the breading from becoming too moist.
• You can customize the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper to the bread crumbs mixture for a spicy kick.

Conclusion:
These easy fried cheese bites are a crowd-pleasing snack that’s simple to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty treat, these crispy, gooey bites are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or savor them on their own for a delicious snack anytime!

1. Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
   Absolutely! While mozzarella string cheese is commonly used for its melty texture, you can experiment with other types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese can be delicious alternatives. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well and is suitable for frying.
2. Can I make these cheese bites ahead of time and reheat them?
   While these fried cheese bites are best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can prepare them ahead of time and reheat them if needed. However, reheating may affect the texture, and they might not be as crispy and gooey as when freshly fried. If you do choose to reheat them, it’s best to use an oven rather than a microwave to help retain some of the crispiness. Place the bites on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
3. Can I freeze the uncooked cheese bites for later use?
   Yes, you can freeze the uncooked cheese bites for future use. After coating the cheese bites in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer the cheese bites to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking together. When ready to fry, there’s no need to thaw them completely. Simply fry them directly from frozen, adding a little extra frying time to ensure they cook through.
4. What can I serve with these fried cheese bites?
   These fried cheese bites are versatile and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces or enjoyed on their own. Classic marinara sauce is a popular choice, but you can also try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter option, serve the cheese bites with a side of fresh salsa or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist. These bites are also great alongside a crisp green salad or as part of a party platter with other appetizers and finger foods.
5. How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying?
   One common issue when frying cheese bites is the cheese melting and oozing out of the breading, which can make a mess and result in less cheese inside the bites. To prevent this, make sure the cheese is well-coated with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, creating a protective layer around it. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the frying pan, as this can cause the cheese bites to stick together and burst open. Fry the cheese bites in batches, ensuring there is enough space between them for even cooking and minimal contact with each other. By following these tips, you can enjoy perfectly crispy cheese bites with gooey melted cheese inside.