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Fried Cheese

Fried Cheese

Fried Cheese is a quick and easy snack featuring firm cheese coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. It offers a crispy exterior with a gooey, melted center, making it perfect for appetizers, party snacks, or indulgent treats. Customize with herbs, spices, or gluten-free alternatives to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Selection

  • 8 oz firm cheese (mozzarella, halloumi, provolone, or cheddar), cut into 1-inch sticks or cubes

Breading Base

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs/almond flour for gluten-free option)

Binder Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 23 large eggs, beaten

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes
  • Optional: dried oregano or fresh basil mixed into breadcrumbs

Oil for Frying

  • Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying (enough for deep frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese: Cut your chosen cheese into even-sized sticks or cubes, about 1-inch thick, ensuring uniform frying. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture that can cause oil splatters.
  2. Set Up Your Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, place all-purpose flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat 2-3 eggs. In the third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs mixed with your chosen seasonings and optional herbs or spices.
  3. Coat the Cheese: First, dredge the cheese pieces in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip them into the beaten eggs until fully coated. Finally, roll the cheese in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even, firm coating.
  4. Chill Before Frying: Place the coated cheese pieces on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the breading set firmly and prevent cheese from oozing out during frying.
  5. Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cheese pieces in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your crispy fried cheese hot, garnished with fresh herbs or your favorite dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli.

Notes

  • Keep cheese well chilled before frying to help maintain shape and prevent melting too quickly.
  • For extra crunch, double coat the cheese by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
  • Ensure oil temperature is around 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasy or burnt crust.
  • Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature steady and ensure even cooking.
  • Drain fried cheese on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried cheese, crispy cheese snacks, appetizer, party food, mozzarella sticks, fried mozzarella, easy snacks, gluten-free fried cheese