Mozzarella Cheese Balls (Printable)
Crispy fried mozzarella cubes with melty centers
# Ingredient List:
→ Cheese
01 - 9 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
# Directions:
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 a paper towel to remove excess moisture for better coating adherence.
03 - Roll each mozzarella cube in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
04 - Place breaded cheese balls on a tray and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to help the coating set and prevent cheese leakage during frying.
05 - Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F.
06 - Fry the cheese balls in batches for 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain proper oil temperature.
07 - Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The outside stays shatteringly crispy while the inside turns into pure molten magic
- They come together in under half an hour but taste like they came from a restaurant
02 -
- Dry the mozzarella thoroughly or the coating will slide right off in the hot oil
- Do not skip the chilling step or the cheese might start melting before the crust forms
03 -
- A small pinch of cayenne in the flour mixture wakes up the whole flavor profile
- Marinara is classic but try them with garlic aioli for something completely different