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Breaded Mozzarella with Spices

These breaded mozzarella bites are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with herb and spice flavor. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they’re easy to fry or air-fry and pair beautifully with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mozzarella sticks or fresh mozzarella cut into chunks

  • 2 eggs

  • 1 cup Italian-style or panko breadcrumbs

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp dried basil

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Coating Station:

    • Mix flour with half the spices (garlic, onion, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, pepper) in one bowl.

    • Beat eggs in a second bowl.

    • Mix breadcrumbs with the remaining spices in a third bowl.

  • Coat the Mozzarella:

    • Dredge each piece of mozzarella in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.

    • For extra crunch, repeat with another layer of egg and breadcrumbs.

    • Place on a tray and freeze for 30–60 minutes.

  • Fry Until Golden:

    • Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

    • Fry 3–4 pieces at a time for 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.

    • Drain on paper towels.

  • Serve Hot:

    • Enjoy with warm marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup.

Notes

  • Make it spicy with cayenne or red pepper flakes in the breadcrumb mix.

  • For a healthier option, air fry at 400°F for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway.

  • Make-ahead friendly: freeze coated mozzarella and cook from frozen.