Why You’ll Love Easy Mozzarella Balls Recipe Recipe
Mozzarella balls are irresistible for several reasons:
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They have a crunchy golden crust with soft, melty cheese inside.
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You can cook them three different ways (fried, baked, or air‑fried).
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They make perfect finger food for gatherings and parties.
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You can prepare them ahead, freeze them, and cook later.
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They’re customizable with herbs and dipped in your favorite sauces.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
for the balls
250 g fresh mozzarella balls (or cut block mozzarella into cubes)
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
for breading
½ cup all‑purpose flour
1 egg plus 1 tbsp milk, whisked
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
Salt & pepper to taste
for cooking
Vegetable oil for frying, or oven/air fryer for alternate methods
Directions
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Prep the mozzarella: Drain fresh mozzarella and pat dry. If using a block, cut into 1‑inch cubes.
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Set up breading station: Place flour in one bowl. Whisk egg and milk in a second bowl. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Bread the cheese: Dip each mozzarella piece into flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
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Chill: Arrange breaded balls on a tray and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to firm up.
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Cook:
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Fry: Heat oil and fry for 2–3 minutes until golden.
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Bake: Bake at 350 °F (180 °C) for about 10–15 minutes, turning halfway.
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Air fry: Air‑fry at 375 °F (190 °C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway.
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Serve: Enjoy hot with marinara sauce, aioli, or your favorite dip.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 20–24 mozzarella balls and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes total, including chilling time.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover mozzarella balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air‑fryer at moderate heat until crisp again. You can also freeze them after breading; cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What type of mozzarella should I use?
Use fresh mozzarella balls like bocconcini for best texture. You can also cut a block of fresh mozzarella into bite‑sized cubes.
Can I bake mozzarella balls instead of frying?
Yes — baking at 350 °F (180 °C) gives a lighter but still crispy result.
How do I prevent them from bursting while cooking?
Chill the coated balls before cooking to help the crust set and reduce cheese leakage.
Can I air fry these?
Yes — air fry at 375 °F (190 °C) for about 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through cooking.
What dip pairs well with mozzarella balls?
Marinara sauce, garlic aioli, pesto, or ranch all complement the cheesy bites.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes — bread the balls and refrigerate up to a day before cooking.
Can I freeze them?
Freeze after breading; cook from frozen by frying, baking, or air-frying with a slightly longer cook time.
Why are they gooey inside?
The fresh mozzarella melts during cooking, giving a soft, melty interior under the crispy coating.
How can I add more flavor?
Mix herbs like basil or oregano into the breadcrumbs or add more parmesan for a richer taste.
Are these suitable for parties?
Absolutely — they’re ideal finger food and crowd‑pleasing appetizers.
Conclusion
These easy mozzarella balls bring together crunchy breading and molten cheese for a snack or appetizer that’s both versatile and delicious. Whether you fry, bake, or air‑fry them, they’re bound to be a hit at your next gathering or casual meal. Enjoy creating and sharing this cheesy treat!
Easy Mozzarella Balls Recipe
These crispy fried mozzarella balls are a perfect appetizer or snack, featuring gooey melted cheese coated in a golden breadcrumb crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 16 oz mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in the third.
- Coat each mozzarella ball first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Place the coated mozzarella balls on a tray and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the mozzarella balls in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce if desired.
Notes
- Freezing the mozzarella balls before frying helps prevent cheese leakage.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- You can double coat for an even crispier texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
