Name: Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish); Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the ultimate appetizer for anyone who loves gooey, melted cheese with a crispy exterior. These golden, bite-sized treats are perfect for dipping and will surely become a favorite at your next gathering. The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a rich and satisfying flavor, while the crunchy coating adds the ideal contrast. Whether you’re serving them at a party, a game night, or simply as a delicious snack, these cheesy bites are guaranteed to impress everyone.

Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites

Ingredients

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

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
In a separate shallow dish, beat the egg until smooth.
In another shallow dish, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Take a small portion of the cheese mixture and form it into a ball about the size of a marble. Dip each ball into the egg mixture, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the coated cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all cheese balls are formed and coated.
Bake the cheesy bites for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 (Depending on size)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

Spicy Bites: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
Cheese Blend: Try using a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, or even provolone for a different flavor profile.
Herbed Coating: Add fresh chopped basil or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for an herb-infused flavor.
Baked vs. Fried: For a crispier exterior, you can fry the cheese bites in hot oil instead of baking them. Be sure to drain them on paper towels after frying.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cheesy Parmesan mozzarella bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the bites on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re warm and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) for extra crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cheesy Parmesan mozzarella bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls and coat them in the breadcrumbs the day before. Simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorites.

3. How can I make these bites gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

4. Can I freeze the cheesy Parmesan mozzarella bites?

Yes! After forming and breading the bites, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.

5. Can I fry these bites instead of baking them?

Yes, for a crispier exterior, you can fry the bites in vegetable oil at 375°F (190°C) for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

6. What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?

Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for the crispiest texture, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if preferred.

7. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce for dipping?

Yes, store-bought marinara works perfectly as a dipping sauce. You can also make your own homemade marinara if you prefer.

8. How do I keep the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Ensure that the cheese mixture is compact when forming the balls, and make sure the coating is evenly applied around each ball to seal the cheese inside.

9. Can I add some extra flavor to the breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can add some grated garlic or fresh herbs to the breadcrumbs for additional flavor.

10. How long can I store these bites in the fridge?

Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure they cool down before storing them.

Conclusion

Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are an irresistible snack or appetizer that combines cheesy goodness with a crispy, flavorful coating. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this mouthwatering treat any time you’re craving something savory. Whether baked or fried, served with marinara or enjoyed on their own, these cheesy bites will surely be a hit with everyone who tries them.