This Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella is a cheesy treat that’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Just imagine biting into a warm, melty delight!
Cooking on a Blackstone makes everything more fun! I love serving these with marinara sauce for dipping—it’s like a little party on a plate. Who can resist cheese and crispy bites? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is best for that gooey stretch. If you’re looking for a lower-moisture option, provolone works too. For vegan alternatives, try cashew-based cheeses; they melt pretty well in this recipe.
Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko gives you that extra crunch. If you can’t find them, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture may be different. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crush rice cakes as a substitute.
Eggs: Eggs help with binding. If you’re vegan or allergic, use a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) or a commercial egg replacer, which can mimic binding well.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning and garlic powder add great flavor. You can mix it up by adding some cayenne pepper for heat or smoked paprika for a different taste profile.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Fried Mozzarella?
Frying mozzarella can be tricky because you want a perfect golden crisp without the cheese melting away. Here are some great tips to keep in mind:
- Ensure your oil is preheated to the right temperature. If it’s too cold, the cheese will absorb grease; too hot, and it may burn before cooking through.
- Make sure to coat the cheese slices evenly in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for a solid shield. A double breading helps keep everything intact.
- Don’t crowd the griddle; leave space between slices to allow even cooking and crisping.
- Rest them on paper towels to absorb excess oil after frying, which keeps them crispy and not greasy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious, crunchy snack ready to be enjoyed!
How to Make Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 slices of mozzarella cheese (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) for frying
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook. So in total, you can have your delicious fried mozzarella ready in about 25 minutes! Quick and easy for a perfect snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Griddle:
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle or large flat-top grill to medium-high heat. Pour in enough oil to coat the surface—this will help your mozzarella get that delicious crispy texture.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Make your breading area efficient! In one shallow bowl, add flour. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens!
3. Bread the Mozzarella:
Take each slice of mozzarella and first dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, coat it in the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the crumbs stick. For an extra crispy finish, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps to double coat the cheese.
4. Frying Time:
Carefully place the breaded mozzarella slices onto your preheated griddle. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes or until you see that beautiful golden brown color. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
5. Drain and Serve:
Once they are perfectly fried, remove the mozzarella slices from the griddle and place them on paper towels to absorb any extra oil. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy, melty Blackstone fried mozzarella immediately with marinara sauce for dipping. Dig in and savor every bite!
Enjoy your delicious creation! Perfect for game day, gatherings, or just as a treat for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is the classic choice for its gooey texture, you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt differently.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded mozzarella slices ahead of time! Just bread them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before frying. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just ensure to separate each piece with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some of that crispiness.
Can I Air Fry These Instead?
Definitely! To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded mozzarella slices in a single layer and spray lightly with cooking oil. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through. Enjoy a healthier version of this tasty snack!