This Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella is a cheesy snack you’ll love! Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, it’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Seriously, who can resist melty cheese? I always dip these in marinara sauce for an extra flavor kick. Plus, they come together in no time—great for when the snack cravings hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella: This is the star of the dish! Look for high-quality fresh mozzarella, as it melts beautifully. If unavailable, you can use string cheese or low-moisture mozzarella, but the texture will differ.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko because it makes everything crispier! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the crunch won’t be quite the same. You could also crush up some cornflakes for a unique twist.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds extra flavor to the coating. If you’re out of Parmesan, grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option will do the trick.
Italian Seasoning: While I suggest using this, feel free to substitute with any dried herbs you have on hand, like oregano or thyme, to suit your taste!
How Can I Ensure My Mozzarella Stays Inside while Frying?
One common issue with frying mozzarella is that it can ooze out. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Start by drying your mozzarella slices well. This helps the breading stick and reduces the moisture that can cause ooze.
- Chill the breaded slices for 15-20 minutes before frying. This firms them up and helps maintain their shape.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the pan when frying; this keeps the oil hot and ensures even cooking.
By following these tips, you’ll have golden, crispy mozzarella that stays perfectly intact on the inside. Enjoy your snacking adventure!
Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 5-10 minutes to fry, plus an optional chilling time of 15-20 minutes to help the breading adhere better. Overall, you can have delicious fried mozzarella ready in about 30-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by gathering three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with the tablespoon of water until well combined. In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Slice the Mozzarella:
Carefully slice the fresh mozzarella into rounds, roughly 1/2 inch thick. This will ensure each piece is the perfect size for frying and dipping.
3. Dry the Slices:
Pat each mozzarella slice dry with paper towels to help remove excess moisture. This step is key for crispiness and to prevent sogginess.
4. Breading Station:
Now it’s time to bread the mozzarella. First, dip each slice into the flour, making sure to coat it fully and tap off any excess. Next, dip the slice into the egg wash, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat both sides in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere well.
5. Chill the Battered Mozzarella:
Once all slices are breaded, place them on a baking sheet or plate. For the best results, chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the coating to stick during frying.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a skillet or on a Blackstone griddle, heat oil to medium-high heat (about 350°F/175°C). You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet so that the mozzarella can fry properly.
7. Fry the Mozzarella:
Carefully add the breaded mozzarella slices into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.
8. Drain and Garnish:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the mozzarella and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the fried mozzarella slices hot, alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
With these easy steps, you’ll have perfect fried mozzarella that’s a hit for appetizers or snacks! Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
FAQ for Easy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Can I Use Pre-packaged Mozzarella Sticks Instead?
Yes, you can! Just skip the breading steps and fry them directly in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. This saves time and still gives you that delicious, cheesy snack!
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they may not be as crispy. Alternatively, try crushing cornflakes or using crushed crackers for a different texture!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bread your mozzarella slices in advance and chill them in the refrigerator. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fried mozzarella in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an air fryer or in a hot skillet to get them crispy again!
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions or need further tips! Enjoy your cooking!
