Crispy Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Cheeses
01 -
Fresh mozzarella cheese, 1 cup shredded or cut into small cubes
02 -
Grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup
→ Coating
03 -
Italian or plain breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup
04 -
All-purpose flour, 1/4 cup
05 -
Large egg, lightly beaten
→ Seasonings
06 -
Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon
07 -
Italian herb blend (oregano, basil), 1 teaspoon
08 -
Sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon
09 -
Fresh ground black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon
10 -
Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
# Instructions:
01 -
Get your oven nice and hot - crank it up to 400°F (200°C). While you wait, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep these cheesy bites from sticking.
02 -
Toss together the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan in a bowl. This combo is going to give you that perfect mix of gooey and sharp cheese flavors.
03 -
Grab three bowls: put flour in one, beaten egg in another, and mix your breadcrumbs with all the seasonings in the third. This is your assembly line for perfectly coated bites!
04 -
Take about a tablespoon of the cheese mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. You should get about 12-15 balls total. Now's the fun part - dip each ball in flour, then egg, then roll in those seasoned breadcrumbs.
05 -
Place your coated cheese balls on the baking sheet, giving them some space to breathe. Give them a light spray with cooking oil or a drizzle of olive oil to help them get golden brown.
06 -
Pop them in the oven for 10-12 minutes until they're crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them at the end - you want them melty inside but not exploding!
# Notes:
01 -
These bites need a few minutes to cool after baking - they're like little cheese volcanos when they first come out!
02 -
Try dipping them in marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo for extra flavor.