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Best Crispy Mozzarella Bites with Easy Marinara Dipping Sauce

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These crispy mozzarella bites are crunchy on the outside, impossibly gooey on the inside, and served with a tangy homemade marinara sauce. Perfect for game day, movie night, or any time you need a quick, crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella block
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cut the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up breading station: bowl 1 with flour, bowl 2 with whisked eggs, bowl 3 with breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat each cheese cube in flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumbs. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Repeat egg wash and breadcrumb steps for a double coat on each cube.
  5. Freeze the coated bites for at least 20 minutes.
  6. Meanwhile, make marinara: heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes. Simmer on low for 10-12 minutes. Stir in fresh basil before serving.
  7. Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Fry 5-6 frozen bites at a time for 60-90 seconds, turning once, until deep golden brown.
  9. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
  10. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.

Notes

Don’t skip the freezing step—it prevents cheese from leaking during frying. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F. Double-coating is essential for a sturdy, crunchy shell. Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: mozzarella bites, crispy cheese, marinara dipping sauce, appetizer, game day snack, fried cheese

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