Fried Mozzarella Balls

Fried mozzarella balls are the perfect bite-sized snack for any occasion. These delicious morsels are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them an irresistible treat. Ideal for parties, game days, or simply as a fun appetizer, fried mozzarella balls pair perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping. With their delightful texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves cheesy snacks! These fried mozzarella balls are a hit at parties and family get-togethers.
• Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, adding your favorite herbs or spices.
• Perfect for Dipping: Pair these balls with marinara sauce or your favorite dip for an extra flavor boost.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this cheesy goodness, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep pan
• Medium bowls (3)
• Slotted spoon
• Parchment paper
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pan: Essential for frying, allowing you to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on your mozzarella balls.
• Medium bowls: Useful for setting up a breading station; they help keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for safely removing fried mozzarella balls from hot oil without excess grease.

Ingredients

To create these amazing fried mozzarella balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Mozzarella Balls

• 16 oz Bocconcini (drained and patted dry)
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 3 Eggs (beaten)
• 1 1/2 cups Plain bread crumbs
• 1 1/2 tsp Garlic powder (divided)
• 2 1/2 tsp Dried Italian seasoning (divided)
• 1 1/2 tsp Salt (divided)
• Oil for frying

For Serving

• Marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Parmesan cheese (grated, for garnish)
• Parsley (finely chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Fried Mozzarella Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Balls

1. Drain the mozzarella balls. Once you remove them from the liquid, place them on top of paper towels. Pat them dry and set them aside.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

1. Use three medium-sized bowls:
2. In one bowl, whisk together flour, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning.
3. In the second bowl, beat the eggs together.
4. In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp salt.

Step 3: Coat in Breading

1. Take 5-6 mozzarella balls at a time.
2. First coat them in flour.
3. Next, dip them into beaten eggs.
4. Then roll in seasoned breadcrumbs.
5. Repeat dipping in egg followed by another layer of breadcrumbs to ensure even coating.

Step 4: Freeze

1. Place coated mozzarella balls onto a parchment-lined sheet pan.
2. Freeze for a minimum of 1-2 hours to firm up.

Step 5: Fry

1. Pour oil into a deep pan (about 2 cups of canola oil).
2. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove mozzarella balls from the freezer; working in small batches, drop them into hot oil.
4. Fry for about 60-90 seconds or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Drain and Cool

1. Remove fried mozzarella balls with a slotted spoon.
2. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
3. Season with salt and top with grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade fried mozzarella balls! They’re sure to be a favorite among family and friends alike!

How to Serve Fried Mozzarella Balls

Fried mozzarella balls are a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways. Their crispy exterior and gooey interior make them a perfect snack for gatherings or movie nights. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your mozzarella ball experience.

With Marinara Sauce

• Dip the warm mozzarella balls into tangy marinara sauce for a classic pairing. The acidity of the sauce perfectly complements the richness of the cheese.

As a Salad Topping

• Add fried mozzarella balls on top of mixed greens to create a delicious salad. Their crunch adds texture and flavor, making your salad more satisfying.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Include fried mozzarella balls on your charcuterie board alongside cured meats, olives, and crusty bread. They add an appealing visual and tasty element to your spread.

With Garlic Aioli

• Serve with garlic aioli for a creamy and flavorful dip. The garlic enhances the savory notes of the fried cheese while adding a new layer of taste.

In a Wrap

• Wrap fried mozzarella balls in tortillas with fresh vegetables for a tasty lunch option. This combination provides both crunch and creaminess in every bite.

How to Perfect Fried Mozzarella Balls

To achieve the best fried mozzarella balls, focus on technique and preparation. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose high-quality cheese: Opt for fresh bocconcini or other high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
• Double-dip for extra crunch: Coating the balls with breadcrumbs twice ensures a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up during frying.
• Temperature is key: Make sure your oil is heated to 350°F before frying for even cooking and that golden-brown color.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure each ball cooks evenly without steaming.
• Let them cool slightly: Allowing fried mozzarella balls to cool on paper towels after frying helps retain their crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Mozzarella Balls

Fried mozzarella balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the cheesy bites perfectly; serve warm.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze contrast nicely with the richness of the cheese.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad offers a refreshing balance; consider using cherry tomatoes and olives.
5. Zucchini Fries: Crunchy zucchini fries provide an excellent vegetable alternative that is also fun to eat.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying side that pairs well with dipping sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Fried mozzarella balls can be a delicious treat, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for perfectly crispy results.

• Skipping the drying step: Make sure to pat the mozzarella balls dry before breading. This helps the coating stick better and prevents sogginess.
• Not using enough oil: Ensure you have enough oil in your pan for frying. If the oil level is too low, the cheese may not cook evenly and could become greasy.
• Overcrowding the pan: Fry mozzarella balls in small batches. Overcrowding causes the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in uneven cooking and less crispy texture.
• Forgetting to freeze: After breading, freezing the mozzarella balls is essential. This step helps keep their shape and allows for a perfect golden crust upon frying.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season your breadcrumbs! Adding herbs and spices enhances flavor and elevates your fried mozzarella balls from good to great.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Fried Mozzarella Balls

• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Fried Mozzarella Balls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm. Note that this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mozzarella balls and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing fried mozzarella balls.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone, but adjust frying times as needed.

How do I achieve extra crunch?

Double-dipping in breadcrumbs is key for that extra crunch. Try adding more spices or using panko breadcrumbs for additional texture.

Can I make fried mozzarella balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to the frying stage, freeze them, then fry when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with fried mozzarella balls?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, but feel free to try different dipping sauces like ranch or pesto!

Are these fried mozzarella balls vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not include any meat or animal-derived gelatin.

Final Thoughts

Fried mozzarella balls are an irresistible appetizer that brings joy to any gathering. Their crispy exterior paired with gooey cheese makes them a delightful treat. Feel free to customize them by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences!