Name: Fried Cheese Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487487H15M14S
Total time: PT-487487H15M14S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz mozzarella cheese sticks (or any firm cheese like cheddar or gouda); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs (panko or regular); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional); Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

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Fried Cheese Bites are a crispy, gooey, and savory appetizer or snack made with melty cheese encased in a golden, crunchy coating. Perfectly bite-sized, these cheesy delights are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties, game days, or when you’re craving something indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy on the outside, melty and gooey on the inside.
Simple to make with just a few ingredients.
Great for parties, snacks, or as a side to your main dishes.
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes.
Customizable with your favorite cheese and seasonings.

Fried Cheese Bites

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mozzarella cheese sticks (or any firm cheese like cheddar or gouda)
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Bread crumbs (panko or regular)
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder (optional)
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

Directions

Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch long.
Set up a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a third.
Coat each cheese piece in flour, dip it into the egg, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat for all pieces.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
Fry the cheese bites in small batches, cooking for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcook, as the cheese can start to ooze out.
Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4–6 and takes 10 minutes of prep time plus 10–15 minutes of frying.

Variations

Use a variety of cheeses, like cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda, for different flavors.
Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the breading for a spicy kick.
Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Serve with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Fried cheese bites are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5–7 minutes to get them crispy again. You can also use an air fryer to reheat them.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 10–15 minutes or until golden brown, but they might not be as crispy as fried.

Can I use string cheese?

Yes, string cheese works perfectly for this recipe. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces.

How do I keep the cheese from oozing out while frying?

Make sure the cheese is coated well with the breading, and try not to overcook them. Frying at the correct temperature also helps keep the cheese inside.

Can I freeze these?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded cheese bites before frying. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Fry them directly from frozen when you’re ready to eat.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Marinara, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or even a creamy garlic dip are great options!

Can I make these in advance?

While fried cheese bites are best fresh, you can prepare the breaded bites ahead of time and fry them just before serving.

Conclusion

Fried Cheese Bites are the ultimate indulgent snack—crispy on the outside, melty and gooey on the inside. These cheesy, savory treats are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or enjoying them as a guilty pleasure, they’re a must-try for cheese lovers!