Looking for the perfect party snack or game-day treat? These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and absolutely irresistible! Paired with marinara sauce for dipping, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Let’s dive into this easy, cheesy recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cheese Bites:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture works best)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs with a pinch of Italian seasoning)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for binding)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a savory kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (for that classic Italian flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on the saltiness of your cheese)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional, for a little spice)
For Serving:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, warmed for dipping)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
3. Form the Bites:
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball (or 1-1.5 inches in diameter). If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water or beaten egg to help it bind.
4. Coat the Bites:
Set up a coating station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten egg
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs
Roll each cheese ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection:
Bake the cheese bites for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as the cheese can melt and ooze out if cooked too long.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes (they’ll be piping hot!). Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch, and serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheese bites up to the coating step, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Air Fryer Option: For an extra crispy texture, cook the bites in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the cheese mixture for a spicy twist.
- Double the Batch: These bites freeze well! After coating, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, these bites are sure to satisfy your cheesy cravings.
