Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites Recipe

Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the ultimate savory snack for cheese lovers. These bite-sized morsels are packed with a delicious combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with garlic powder and basil, then baked to a golden, crispy perfection. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party, a snack for game night, or just craving something cheesy, these bites are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Paired with marinara sauce for dipping, they’re both cheesy and flavorful!

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bites from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried basil until well combined.
3. Beat the Egg: In a separate small bowl, beat the egg until smooth.
4. Form the Bites: Roll the cheese mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Dip each ball into the beaten egg, ensuring it is coated evenly, then place it on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve: Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and serve them hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• Add Herbs: You can increase the flavor profile by adding additional herbs such as oregano, thyme, or parsley to the cheese mixture.
• Spicy Twist: For a spicy version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture or sprinkle some on top before baking.
• Bacon Bits: For a savory, smoky kick, mix in some crumbled cooked bacon to the cheese mixture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the mozzarella with vegan cheese and use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) in place of the regular egg.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the bites in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes over medium heat.

10 FAQs

1. Can I freeze these cheese bites?
   Yes, you can freeze the formed cheese balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Bake from frozen for about 15 minutes at 375°F.
2. What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
   You can use either regular or panko breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will give you a lighter, crunchier texture.
3. Can I make these cheese bites ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cheese bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or provolone. Parmesan can also be swapped with Romano cheese.
5. Are these bites gluten-free?
   To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs.
6. Can I pan-fry these instead of baking?
   Yes, you can pan-fry these cheese bites. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the bites until golden and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out while baking?
   Ensure the bites are tightly packed and the breadcrumbs are well-coated. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help hold the shape.
8. Can I serve these bites without marinara sauce?
   Absolutely! They are delicious on their own, or you can serve them with other dipping sauces like ranch, garlic butter, or even a sweet chili sauce.
9. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
   Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but fresh shredded cheese will melt better and create a smoother texture. If using pre-shredded cheese, make sure it’s not coated with anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture.
10. How do I know when the bites are done?
    The bites should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also test them by gently pressing on one—if it feels firm and no longer soft, they’re ready.

Conclusion

Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the perfect snack for any occasion, offering a flavorful combination of crispy breadcrumbs, gooey melted cheese, and savory seasonings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these bite-sized treats come together quickly and are sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or an indulgent treat for yourself, these cheesy bites deliver on flavor and satisfaction every time!

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