Mozzarella Cheese Balls (Printable)
Crispy fried mozzarella cubes with melty centers. Quick Italian-American appetizer ready in 25 minutes.
# What You Need:
→ Cheese
01 - 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
→ Breading
02 - 2 large eggs
03 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 1 1/4 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
05 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
06 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
07 - 1/2 tsp salt
08 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Frying
09 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
# How to Make It:
01 - Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs; one with beaten eggs; and one with breadcrumbs.
02 - Pat the mozzarella cubes dry with paper towels to ensure better coating adherence.
03 - Roll each mozzarella cube in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for double coating.
04 - Place breaded cheese balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to help the coating set before frying.
05 - Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F.
06 - Fry the cheese balls in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.
07 - Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with marinara sauce, aioli, or ranch dip.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The contrast between the golden crunchy coating and the warm stretchy cheese inside is absolutely irresistible
- These come together in just 25 minutes but taste like something from a restaurant
02 -
- Never skip the chilling step because warm, soft cheese will burst through the coating the moment it hits the hot oil
- Work in small batches when frying to maintain the oil temperature and achieve consistent golden color
03 -
- Use a cookie scoop to portion the coating ingredients evenly across all your cheese cubes
- Let the fried balls rest for 30 seconds before serving so the cheese sets slightly