Description
Crunchy, golden bites of melty mozzarella cheese, perfect for appetizers or holiday parties.
Ingredients
- 24 mini bocconcini (about 1-inch pearls)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Pat the mini bocconcini very dry on paper towels.
- Set up a breading station with flour mixed with salt, beaten eggs with water, and panko mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
- Dredge each mozzarella ball in flour, then in egg, and finally in panko, pressing the crumbs firmly to adhere.
- Chill the coated balls on a sheet tray for 10–15 minutes to firm up the coating.
- For baking, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), place the bites on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 8–10 minutes, turning once at 5 minutes.
- For frying, heat vegetable oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C) and fry 4–6 bites at a time for about 1–2 minutes until golden; drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce or a zesty dip.
Notes
For best results, dry the cheese thoroughly and chill the coated bites for better adherence of the coating. Double-coat for extra crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking or Frying
- Cuisine: Italian