These Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are simple and so cheesy! Each bite is packed with gooey mozzarella and tasty Parmesan, making them a fun snack or appetizer.
They’re perfect for parties or just when you want something crispy and cheesy. I like to serve them with marinara for dipping—because everything’s better with a little sauce, right? 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
mozzarella cheese: This is the star of the show! Choose fresh mozzarella for a gooey center. If you can’t find it, low-moisture mozzarella works well too.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful salty flavor and crunch. For a vegan option, try nutritional yeast for added flavor, though the texture will differ.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs make a lighter and crunchier coating. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch, but the texture won’t be as crispy.
Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: These add great flavor. If you like fresh herbs, feel free to use fresh garlic and chopped herbs instead. Just remember to adjust the quantity since fresh herbs often have a milder taste.
How Do You Ensure the Bites Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about how you prepare and bake them. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure to coat the mozzarella pieces well in the breadcrumbs. Pressing them firmly helps the coating stick.
- Lightly spritz the tops with cooking spray or drizzle some olive oil before baking. This helps them brown nicely.
- Keep enough space between each bite on the baking dish. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them up evenly.
- Monitor the baking time closely. If they start to brown too quickly, you can cover them with foil until they’re done cooking.
These tips will help you achieve crispy, gooey bites every time!
How to Make Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 16 oz (450g) mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized cubes or balls
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the baking dish
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of baking time. You can have tasty Parmesan Mozzarella Bites ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. This tasty mixture will give your bites a crunchy exterior.
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they’re well combined. The eggs will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the mozzarella.
4. Coat the Mozzarella:
Now it’s time to coat each mozzarella cube or ball. Start by dipping a piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the mixture onto the cheese to help it stick well. Repeat for all the mozzarella pieces.
5. Arrange the Bites:
Place the coated mozzarella bites on the prepared baking dish, giving them a little space apart so they have room to brown. This helps them cook evenly!
6. Add a Bit of Help to Brown:
To encourage a lovely golden color, lightly spray the tops of the bites with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them.
7. Bake!
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside will be nicely melted.
8. Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the bites cool for a minute, then garnish them with some extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious bites warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Grab a few; they won’t last long!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites as a delightful appetizer or snack! They’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella offers that classic gooey texture, you can also mix in other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for added flavor. Just remember, some cheeses may melt differently!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the bites ahead! Assemble them and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time if they’re chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Freeze the Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked bites. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!