These crispy mozzarella bites are a tasty treat! They’re perfectly golden on the outside and melty on the inside. Plus, they’re quick to cook on the Blackstone grill!
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese? I love serving these with marinara sauce for dipping. Just a heads up, they might disappear faster than you can say “cheese!” 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella: The main star of the show! Use fresh mozzarella for a gooey center. If it’s not available, try part-skim mozzarella, but it won’t melt as beautifully. Avoid cheap, pre-shredded varieties—they might not hold their shape.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for an extra crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work in a pinch, but your bites may not turn out as crunchy. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a fun twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds great flavor, but pre-grated works too. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Seasonings: The garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning really boost the flavor. Feel free to swap Italian seasoning with herbs like basil or thyme, depending on what you have on hand!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch on Mozzarella Bites?
To achieve an irresistible crunch, pay close attention to the breading process. Patting the mozzarella dry before breading is key to getting a good coating. Also, don’t skip the refrigeration step—this helps the breading stick during frying!
- Set up three bowls for a smooth workflow: flour, egg mix, and breadcrumb mix.
- Ensure each slice is fully coated before placing it in the fridge; double-breading can enhance crunchiness.
- Fry in batches, and don’t overcrowd the pan to keep the oil temperature consistent.
By following these tips, you’ll serve up crispy, delicious mozzarella bites every time!
Crispy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mozzarella Bites:
- 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Oil (vegetable or canola) for frying on the Blackstone griddle
- Marinara sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-30 minutes for prep time and an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking. Be sure to allow for at least 30 minutes of chilling time after breading, making the total time about 1 hour. Worth the wait for delicious, crispy bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Start by organizing your work area with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until they’re nicely blended. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Mozzarella:
Use paper towels to pat the mozzarella slices dry, which helps the breading stick better. Nobody wants a cheesy disaster!
3. Bread the Mozzarella Slices:
Take each mozzarella slice and first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, press the slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well covered. For extra crunch, dip it in the egg and breadcrumbs one more time!
4. Chill the Bites:
Place the breaded mozzarella bites on a plate or tray. To help the coating stick while frying, put them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the Griddle:
While the bites are chilling, preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat. Add enough oil to shallow fry the bites (around 1/4 inch deep). You know it’s ready when the oil shimmers!
6. Fry the Mozzarella Bites:
Carefully add the mozzarella bites to the hot oil in batches. Fry them until they’re golden brown and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes on each side. Use tongs to gently flip them.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the bites are golden, remove them from the griddle and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them nice and light!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy mozzarella bites immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Don’t forget to set out a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping!
Enjoy the crispy, melty deliciousness of these Blackstone fried mozzarella bites!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Low-Fat Mozzarella for This Recipe?
While you can use low-fat mozzarella, it may not melt as well or achieve the same gooey texture as fresh mozzarella. If possible, stick with traditional fresh mozzarella for the best results!
What Should I Do If My Breading Keeps Falling Off?
If your breading falls off during frying, make sure to pat the mozzarella slices dry before starting, and ensure the breaded bites are chilled for at least 30 minutes. A double layer of egg and breadcrumbs also helps create a stronger seal.
Can I Freeze Leftover Mozzarella Bites?
Absolutely! After frying, you can freeze leftover mozzarella bites. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy.
What Dipping Sauce Pairs Best with These Bites?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but feel free to try other dips! Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy marinara can add a fun twist. Get creative and see what suits your taste!
