Description
Crispy Mexican queso fresco bites deliver a delightful appetizer that combines golden-brown exterior with creamy interior. Cheese lovers will savor these simple, irresistible morsels perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a quick snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (226 g) mozzarella or cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (240 ml) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Transform cheese blocks into small, uniform cubes for consistent cooking and crispy exterior.
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour for initial coating, another with whisked eggs for binding, and the last with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with aromatic spices.
- Meticulously coat each cheese cube first in flour, ensuring complete coverage, then dunk in egg wash, and finally roll thoroughly in spiced breadcrumb mixture for maximum crunch.
- Perform a second breading pass for an extra-crispy, thick golden crust that seals in the cheese.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to precise 350F, allowing oil to reach optimal frying temperature for perfect golden results.
- Carefully lower breaded cheese cubes into hot oil, working in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent overcrowding.
- Fry each batch for 30-60 seconds, watching for a rich golden-brown color that indicates crispy exterior and melted interior.
- Extract cheese bites using a perforated spoon, allowing excess oil to drip back into the pan.
- Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to absorb remaining oil and maintain crispiness.
- Serve immediately alongside marinara sauce or preferred dipping condiment for maximum flavor and temperature enjoyment.
Notes
- Chill cheese cubes before breading to prevent melting during frying and maintain their shape.
- Choose firm cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or halloumi that can withstand high temperatures without completely breaking down.
- Double-coating with breadcrumbs creates an extra crispy, golden exterior that locks in the melty cheese interior.
- For gluten-free options, swap wheat flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour and gluten-free panko crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg