This Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella is a cheesy delight! With gooey mozzarella sticks coated in crispy breadcrumbs, they’re perfect for snacking and sharing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella provides a wonderful melt. For a firmer option, use part-skim mozzarella. If you’re dairy-free, cashew or almond cheese alternatives can be used but expect a different texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light, crunchy texture. If you can’t find them, regular breadcrumbs work, but they may not be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.
Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning: These spices add extra flavor! If you like it spicy, try adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like basil can also be a nice touch.
Vegetable Oil: Canola oil and peanut oil are great for frying because of their high smoke point. If you prefer a healthier option, avocado oil works well, too.
How Do I Get the Breaded Cheese to Stay Intact When Frying?
Getting that perfect crispy breading without the cheese leaking out can be a challenge! Here are some tips to help.
- Ensure your mozzarella is thoroughly dried before breading. Excess moisture can cause the cheese to ooze during frying.
- Freezing the breaded mozzarella for about 30 minutes helps the coating firm up, keeping it in place while cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying; this lowers the oil temperature and can cause uneven cooking.
- Fry in batches and keep the heat steady. If the oil is too hot, the outside may brown quickly while the cheese remains unmelted inside.
These tips and ingredient options will help you make delicious Blackstone Fried Mozzarella at home! Enjoy delicious cheese bites with your favorite marinara sauce!
Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes for freezing and frying. Overall, you’ll spend roughly 45 minutes to have crunchy, cheesy mozzarella ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
Start by preparing three shallow bowls. Fill the first bowl with flour, the second bowl with beaten eggs, and the third bowl with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is so each mozzarella slice can be coated properly.
2. Dry the Mozzarella:
Using paper towels, pat the sliced mozzarella rounds dry. This removes excess moisture, helping the coating adhere better and preventing leaking while frying.
3. Dredge the Cheese:
Coat each slice of mozzarella in the flour, making sure to shake off the excess. This initial coating helps the egg stick better.
4. Egg Bath Time:
Next, dip the floured mozzarella slices in the beaten eggs. Make sure they’re fully covered for a good coating.
5. Add the Crunch:
Now, press the mozzarella into the seasoned panko breadcrumbs to ensure it’s fully coated. For an even crispier texture, feel free to dip them back into the egg and then re-coat them in breadcrumbs.
6. Freeze to Firm Up:
Arrange the breaded mozzarella on a plate or tray and pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps set the coating and keeps the cheese from melting out during frying.
7. Heat the Oil:
In a skillet or Blackstone griddle, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be at approximately 350°F (175°C) when you’re ready to fry.
8. Fry Your Mozzarella:
Gently place the mozzarella slices in batches into the hot oil. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain Excess Oil:
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried mozzarella from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, garnish the fried mozzarella with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious cheese bites!
Bon Appétit! 😊
FAQ for Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Can I Use Low-Fat Mozzarella for This Recipe?
While you can use low-fat mozzarella, be aware that it may not melt as well or achieve the same gooey texture as full-fat mozzarella. For a better result, opt for whole or part-skim mozzarella.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but keep in mind that they may not yield the same crunch. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Fried Mozzarella?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for best results, around 10-15 minutes, to maintain crispiness.
Can I Make These in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the breaded mozzarella and freeze them for up to a month. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer, but add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
