Fried Mozzarella Balls

Fried mozzarella balls are a delightful treat that can elevate any gathering. These crispy and crunchy bites, filled with gooey cheese, are perfect for parties, game nights, or as a tasty snack. Their savory flavor pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, making them irresistible. With a simple recipe, you can whip up these fried mozzarella balls quickly, impressing your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create delicious fried mozzarella balls at home.
• Crispy Texture: The double-dipping technique ensures a perfect golden-brown crust that is both crunchy and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or party food; they fit any occasion!
• Gooey Cheese Filling: The warm mozzarella inside creates a delightful contrast to the crispy exterior.
• Kid-Friendly Delight: Children and adults alike will love these cheesy bites, making them a hit for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Medium-sized bowls (3)
• Slotted spoon
• Parchment-lined sheet pan
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: This allows for even cooking and browning while keeping the oil contained during frying.
• Medium-sized bowls: Perfect for setting up your breading station without cluttering your workspace.
• Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess oil from the fried mozzarella balls while allowing steam to escape.

Ingredients

To make delicious fried mozzarella balls, you will need the following ingredients:

• 16 oz Bocconcini (drained and patted dry)
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 3 Eggs (beaten)
• 1 1/2 cups Plain bread crumbs
• 1 1/2 tsp Garlic powder (divided)
• 2 1/2 tsp Dried Italian seasoning (divided)
• 1 1/2 tsp Salt (divided)
• Oil for frying
• Marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Parmesan cheese (grated, for garnish)
• Parsley (finely chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Fried Mozzarella Balls

Step 1: Drain the Mozzarella Balls

Drain the mozzarella balls thoroughly. Place them on paper towels and pat them dry. This step is crucial to avoid excess moisture during frying.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

Set up three medium-sized bowls:
1. In the first bowl, whisk together flour, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning.
2. Beat the eggs in the second bowl.
3. In the third bowl, combine plain bread crumbs, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp salt.

Step 3: Coat in Breading

Take about five or six mozzarella balls:
1. Roll them in the flour mixture.
2. Dip them into the beaten eggs next.
3. Roll them in the seasoned breadcrumbs.
4. For an extra crispy coating, dip back into the egg and then again into the breadcrumbs. Press firmly to ensure an even coating.

Step 4: Freeze Coated Mozzarella Balls

Place your coated mozzarella balls onto a parchment-lined sheet pan. Freeze them for at least one to two hours to help maintain their shape during frying.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Pour about two cups of oil into a deep frying pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Once hot:
1. Remove mozzarella balls from the freezer.
2. Working in small batches, drop them carefully into the hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown and crispy—about 60 to 90 seconds.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Use a slotted spoon to remove fried mozzarella balls from oil. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Season with salt then top with grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping!

How to Serve Fried Mozzarella Balls

Serving fried mozzarella balls is a delightful way to impress your guests and elevate any gathering. Their crispy exterior and gooey center make them perfect for various pairings.

With Marinara Sauce

• Dip the fried mozzarella balls in warm marinara sauce for a classic taste that enhances their flavor.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Arrange fried mozzarella balls alongside cured meats, olives, and assorted cheeses for an appetizing presentation.

As Party Appetizers

• Serve them in small cups or on skewers at parties to make snacking easy and fun.

With Fresh Salads

• Pair with a light arugula salad drizzled with balsamic dressing for a refreshing contrast.

On Pizza

• Add them as toppings on your favorite pizza for an extra cheesy experience.

With Garlic Aioli

• Offer garlic aioli as an alternative dipping sauce for those who enjoy a creamy, garlicky flavor.

How to Perfect Fried Mozzarella Balls

Making the perfect fried mozzarella balls requires attention to detail and some cooking techniques. Here are tips to ensure your snack turns out great every time.

• Use Dry Mozzarella: Ensure the mozzarella balls are well-drained and patted dry. This prevents excess moisture, which can lead to soggy results.
• Double Dip: Coating the cheese in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs twice creates a thicker crust that stays crispy during frying.
• Chill Before Frying: Freezing the breaded mozzarella balls for at least one hour helps maintain their shape while frying.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil around 350°F. If it’s too hot, they may burn; too cold will result in greasy bites.
• Fry in Batches: Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can drop the oil temperature.
• Drain Properly: After frying, place them on paper towels immediately to absorb excess oil for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Mozzarella Balls

Fried mozzarella balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Serve warm garlic bread with melted butter and herbs for a deliciously comforting side.

2. Caprese Salad
   A fresh salad with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with olive oil adds brightness to your meal.

3. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a crunchy contrast.

4. Stuffed Peppers
   Mini bell peppers filled with cheese or vegetables provide color and flavor diversity on your plate.

5. Zucchini Fries
   Baked or fried zucchini fries seasoned with Parmesan make for a tasty veggie side that’s still indulgent.

6. Pasta Primavera
   A colorful dish of sautéed seasonal vegetables over pasta makes a hearty accompaniment without overpowering the main attraction.

7. Mixed Green Salad
   Lighten up the meal with mixed greens tossed in vinaigrette; it balances richness from the cheese balls.

8. Sweet Potato Wedges
   Crispy sweet potato wedges baked or fried add sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Fried mozzarella balls are a delightful treat, but there can be pitfalls along the way. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while preparing this dish.

• Skipping the drying step: It’s essential to thoroughly dry the mozzarella balls before breading. Excess moisture can cause the coating to become soggy and fall off during frying.
• Not double-dipping: A single coating of breadcrumbs may not provide enough crunch. Make sure to dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice for a thicker, crispier crust.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many mozzarella balls at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy balls. Fry in small batches to maintain consistent heat.
• Neglecting oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough (350°F), the cheese may leak out. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature before frying.
• Serving immediately: Allow the fried mozzarella balls to cool slightly after frying for easier handling and better flavor. Hot cheese can be challenging to eat right away.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried mozzarella balls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fried Mozzarella Balls

• Place cooled mozzarella balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Fried Mozzarella Balls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, but expect them to lose some crunchiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about fried mozzarella balls that might help you enjoy this delicious snack even more.

How do I know when my Fried Mozzarella Balls are done?

The mozzarella balls are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also cut one open; the cheese should be melty and gooey inside.

Can I make Fried Mozzarella Balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time by freezing them after breading. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve.

What sauce goes best with Fried Mozzarella Balls?

Tangy marinara sauce is traditional, but garlic aioli or pesto also pairs wonderfully with fried mozzarella balls.

Can I use different cheeses for this recipe?

Yes! While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone, keeping in mind that melting properties may vary.

Final Thoughts

Fried mozzarella balls are a fantastic appetizer that combines crispy textures with gooey cheese goodness. They can easily be customized with different seasonings or served alongside various sauces. Try making these delightful bites at home for your next gathering or movie night!

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Fried Mozzarella Balls

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 15 servings 1x

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Description

Fried mozzarella balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining a crispy exterior with a gooey, melty interior. Perfect for parties or as a quick snack, these cheesy bites are easy to make at home. Serve them hot alongside marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time! With a simple breading technique that guarantees a golden-brown crust, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 oz bocconcini (drained and patted dry)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs (beaten)
• 1 ½ cups plain bread crumbs
• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder (divided)
• 2 ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning (divided)
• 1 ½ tsp salt (divided)
• Oil for frying
• Marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Grated parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Finely chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly drain and pat dry the mozzarella balls to prevent excess moisture.
2. Set up your breading station with three bowls: one for flour mixed with salt and Italian seasoning, one for beaten eggs, and one for seasoned breadcrumbs.
3. Coat each mozzarella ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs.
4. Freeze the coated balls on a parchment-lined sheet pan for 1-2 hours.
5. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep frying pan. Fry the mozzarella balls in small batches until golden brown, about 60-90 seconds.
6. Drain on paper towels and season with salt. Garnish with parmesan and parsley before serving with marinara sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg