Crispy Mozzarella Balls
Crispy Mozzarella Balls are golden, crunchy bites with a melty mozzarella cheese center wrapped in a perfectly breaded crust. Ideal for parties, movie nights, or quick snacks, these easy-to-make appetizers deliver a satisfying combination of crispy texture and gooey cheese with customizable seasoning and cooking methods.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 20-30 mozzarella balls
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free breadcrumbs are used)
Cheese
- High-quality fresh mozzarella cheese balls (quantity as desired, typically 20-30 balls)
Breading
- All-purpose flour (about 1 cup, lightly seasoned with salt and pepper)
- Eggs (2-3, beaten)
- Breadcrumbs (1-2 cups, panko for extra crunch or regular breadcrumbs)
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs to taste)
Frying
- Vegetable or canola oil (for deep frying, enough to submerge the balls)
- Prepare the mozzarella: Drain any excess moisture from the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess and ensure the coating sticks well.
- Set up your breading stations: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs ready for coating.
- Coat each mozzarella ball: Roll each ball in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip fully into the beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs. For a stronger coating and extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double coat.
- Chill before frying: Place the coated mozzarella balls on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from oozing out and to help the coating hold during frying.
- Fry until golden: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chilled mozzarella balls in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Notes
- Freeze the mozzarella balls before frying to prevent cheese leaks.
- Maintain oil temperature consistently at around 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
- Double breading increases crunch and durability of coating.
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melting and flavor.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels after frying to keep them crispy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 balls
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: mozzarella balls, crispy snack, fried cheese appetizers, party food, easy snack, gluten free mozzarella balls