Fried Mozzarella
Crispy fried mozzarella slices offer a cheesy, gooey center encased in a golden, crunchy coating. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this dish combines melty cheese with a savory breaded crust, appealing to cheese lovers and fried food enthusiasts alike for quick, satisfying bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the mozzarella cheese into 1/4 to 1/3-inch thick slices.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs and minced fresh parsley.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs with a small amount of water, then add salt and pepper to taste.
- Place flour in a third shallow bowl.
- Dip each cheese slice into the flour until completely covered.
- Then dip the floured cheese into the egg mixture, followed by the bread crumbs, repeating the egg and bread crumb steps until the sides and edges are fully coated.
- Heat approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cup of olive oil in two large skillets over medium heat.
- Saute the cheese slices until crispy and golden brown, about a few minutes on each side. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the crispiest coating, ensure that the mozzarella slices are fully coated in flour before dipping them into the egg mixture. For a twist, consider adding Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried herbs can also work. For an extra kick, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Fried mozzarella is best served hot, drizzled with marinara sauce or a balsamic reduction for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board alongside items like Mustard Eggs or Sensational Shrimp Dip. For a complete meal, serve with pasta or crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried mozzarella can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F until crispy again, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Mozzarella contains roughly 1147 calories, with 72g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (237% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (165% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2007mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar. However, keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary, affecting the final texture. Mozzarella is preferred for its stretchiness, making it ideal for frying.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make fried mozzarella gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure the flour used for coating is also gluten-free, such as almond or coconut flour, to maintain the crispy texture.
What can I serve with fried mozzarella?
Fried mozzarella pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side salad, fresh vegetables, or pasta. For a fun twist, add it to a platter with other appetizers like 5 Cup Favorite Salad and Spring Coconut Pie for a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).