Mozzarella Balls

Mozzarella balls are a delicious and crowd-pleasing snack featuring soft, creamy mozzarella coated in a crispy golden crust. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a flavorful appetizer, these bite-sized delights are irresistibly gooey on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside. Whether served with marinara sauce or eaten on their own, mozzarella balls are always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mozzarella balls are simple to prepare and deliver classic comfort in every bite. They make an excellent appetizer or finger food and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces. Their crunchy exterior and melty cheese interior offer a satisfying contrast of textures. You can prepare them in advance and fry them just before serving, making them ideal for entertaining. Plus, they can be baked or air-fried for a lighter version.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain with herbs)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Dried oregano or basil (optional)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
• Marinara sauce or preferred dipping sauce (for serving)

Directions

1. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with optional seasonings in a third.
3. Coat each mozzarella ball first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
4. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
5. Place the breaded mozzarella balls on a tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent the cheese from oozing out during frying.
6. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the mozzarella balls in small batches for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
9. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people and takes about 45 minutes total, including preparation, freezing, and frying.

Variations

• Baked Mozzarella Balls: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet until golden.
• Air-Fried Mozzarella Balls: Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Herbed Coating: Mix fresh or dried Italian herbs into the breadcrumb coating for added flavor.
• Panko Crust: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover mozzarella balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the crust and may make the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use string cheese instead of mozzarella balls?

Yes, you can cut string cheese into bite-sized pieces and use them as a substitute.

Why is my cheese leaking during frying?

This often happens when the coating is too thin or the balls were not chilled long enough before frying. Double-coating and freezing are key.

Can I freeze mozzarella balls before frying?

Yes, freezing them for at least 30 minutes is recommended and you can freeze them longer if needed. Just fry straight from frozen.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Marinara is classic, but you can also serve with ranch, garlic aioli, pesto, or spicy sriracha mayo.

Can I make mozzarella balls ahead of time?

Yes, bread and freeze them in advance, then fry or bake just before serving.

How do I get an even golden crust?

Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) and don’t overcrowd the pan while frying.

Are mozzarella balls gluten-free?

Not typically, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make them suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I use low-moisture mozzarella?

Yes, low-moisture mozzarella helps reduce the risk of cheese leaking during frying, but bocconcini works best for authentic texture.

How do I make them cheesier?

Use high-quality mozzarella with good melting properties. Serve immediately after frying to enjoy the melted interior.

What can I serve with mozzarella balls?

They pair well with a side salad, antipasto platter, or as part of a snack board with cured meats and vegetables.

Conclusion

Mozzarella balls are a delightful appetizer that offers a perfect blend of crunchy exterior and gooey cheese center. Simple to prepare and universally loved, they make an excellent addition to any gathering or meal. With versatile cooking options and customizable flavors, mozzarella balls are sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for entertaining or satisfying a cheesy craving.

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