Fried Mozzarella Balls
Crunchy Cheese Heaven (Fried Mozzarella Balls)
Get ready to experience a flavor sensation like no other! Fried mozzarella balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, with their crispy, golden crust giving way to warm, gooey cheese that stretches delightfully with every bite. Dip them into a tangy marinara sauce, and you’ve got yourself a snack that’s pure joy—perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fried mozzarella balls recipe is all about indulgence and excitement. Here’s why you’ll want to make them right away:
– Crispy on the Outside, Gooey on the Inside: The perfect texture contrast will have everyone coming back for more!
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a party, movie night, or casual get-together, these bites are sure to impress and satisfy.
– Customizable Fun: Easily tweak the flavors to suit your taste—spice them up or keep them classic!
– Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be feasting on these cheesy delights in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather the essentials for this cheesy delight! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Don’t forget, the bocconcini (small mozzarella balls) are the star of the show, bringing that creamy goodness to every bite!
– 16 oz Bocconcini (drained and patted dry)
– 1 cup All-purpose flour
– 3 Eggs (beaten)
– 1 1/2 cups Plain bread crumbs
– 1 1/2 tsp Garlic powder (divided)
– 2 1/2 tsp Dried Italian seasoning (divided)
– 1 1/2 tsp Salt (divided)
– Oil for frying
– Marinara sauce (for dipping)
– Parmesan cheese (grated, for garnish)
– Parsley (finely chopped, for garnish)
*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
Feeling adventurous? The beauty of fried mozzarella balls is how easily they can be customized! Here are a few fun twists to make them your own:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
– Add Extra Protein: Mix in some cooked, chopped bacon or spicy Italian sausage to the breading for a meaty kick!
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs for a fiery twist.
– Swap the Dressing: Try serving with pesto or a zesty aioli instead of marinara for a gourmet touch.
– Colorful Additions: Mix in herbed breadcrumbs or even a dash of paprika for a pop of flavor and color!
How to Make Fried Mozzarella Balls
Step 1: Prep the Mozzarella
Drain the mozzarella balls and gently pat them dry using paper towels. This will help ensure the breading sticks perfectly!
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Grab three medium-sized bowls and set them up like a mini assembly line. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until they’re frothy. For the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Step 3: Coat in Breading
Take about 5-6 mozzarella balls and coat them in flour, then dip them into the egg mixture. Roll them into the seasoned breadcrumbs and then give them another dunk in the egg before finishing off with one last coating of breadcrumbs. Press firmly to ensure a nice even layer—this double-dip method is key for that crispy perfection!
Step 4: Freeze for Best Results
Place the breaded mozzarella balls on a parchment-lined sheet pan and pop them in the freezer for at least 1-2 hours. This step helps them hold their shape while frying!
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
In a deep pan, pour about 2 cups of canola oil and heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the frozen mozzarella balls into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 60-90 seconds, or until they are golden brown and crispy—hello, crunch!
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Using a slotted spoon, remove the mozzarella balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While they’re still hot, sprinkle with a little extra salt, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping—oh, yes please!
Pro Tips for Making Fried Mozzarella Balls
– Patience is Key: Don’t skip the freezing step! It’s essential for achieving that perfect crunchy outer layer.
– Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll be greasy.
– Batch it Up: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy bites.
– Serve Immediately: These cheesy delights are best enjoyed fresh and hot out of the fryer!
How to Serve Fried Mozzarella Balls
Garnishes
Sprinkle your fried mozzarella balls with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and an extra flavor boost.
Side Dishes
Pair your crispy mozzarella balls with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or some crunchy vegetable sticks for a perfect appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the mozzarella balls in individual cups for a fun party snack, on a large wooden board with dipping sauces in the center, or even as part of a delightful antipasto platter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fried mozzarella balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They may lose a bit of their crunch but are still delicious!
Freezing
These fried mozzarella balls can be frozen before frying! Place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just fry them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
Reheating
To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crisp again. The microwave is a no-go here; we want that perfect crunch!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try with cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack for a fun twist.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently, but you can easily spice it up by adding red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs!
How do I make this gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour, and the recipe will still be delicious!
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes! You can bread the mozzarella balls ahead of time and freeze them until you’re ready to fry them.
Final Thoughts
Fried mozzarella balls are more than just a snack; they’re a celebration of gooey goodness and crispy delight! Perfect for gatherings or just a treat for yourself, these little bites of joy are sure to bring smiles to the table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious adventure—you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!
