Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut the cheese into 1-inch cubes or sticks to ensure even frying. Uniform size ensures even cooking. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Use a cutting board. Beginner Note: Cut the cheese into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Set Up Coating Stations: In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well-beaten. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Shallow bowls make coating easier. Use a whisk for beating the eggs. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly. Use three shallow bowls. Beginner Note: Set up the coating stations in a line for efficient coating.
- Coat the Cheese: Dredge each piece of cheese in flour, dip in the egg wash, and then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly. Ensure the cheese is fully coated at each stage. This creates a good seal for the frying process. Use your hands to coat the cheese. Use your hands for coating. Beginner Note: Ensure the cheese is fully coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Freeze the Cheese Bites: Place the coated cheese bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. Freezing helps the breading adhere and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Use a timer for chilling. Use a baking sheet. Beginner Note: Freeze the cheese bites in a single layer.
- Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. Incorrect temperature will result in undercooked or burnt cheese bites. Use a deep fryer or a large pot with high sides. Use a thermometer. Beginner Note: Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
- Fry the Cheese Bites: Fry the frozen cheese bites in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to maintain consistent temperature. Use a slotted spoon for removing the cheese bites. Fry in small batches. Beginner Note: Fry the cheese bites until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the cheese bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard. Paper towels absorb excess oil. Serve immediately for best taste. Use paper towels. Beginner Note: Serve the cheese bites immediately while they are hot and gooey.
Notes
- Use a thermometer for oil.
- Freeze bites for better coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer.
- Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Breading, Frying, Chilling
- Cuisine: American