If you’re craving a snack that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make, then look no further! Crispy Fried String Cheese Bites are the ultimate treat for any cheese lover. These bites are crispy on the outside and delightfully gooey on the inside, offering the perfect combination of texture and flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, game day snack, or just a quick treat for yourself, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible cheese bites step by step!
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
To make the crispy fried string cheese bites, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- String cheese – 12 pieces (or more if you’re serving a crowd)
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup (for a crispy coating)
- Flour – 1/2 cup (helps the batter stick to the cheese)
- Eggs – 2 large eggs, beaten (to coat the cheese before breading)
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp (for seasoning)
- Onion powder – 1 tsp (for seasoning)
- Dried Italian seasoning – 1 tsp (optional, but adds great flavor)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Vegetable oil – for frying (use a high-heat oil like canola or vegetable oil)
- Marinara sauce – for dipping (optional, but highly recommended!)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the String Cheese
Start by unwrapping the string cheese and cutting each piece in half. You can also cut them into thirds if you prefer smaller, bite-sized pieces. Cutting the cheese into smaller bites ensures each piece is easy to pop in your mouth and dip into marinara sauce.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
To get the perfect crispy coating on your cheese, you’ll need to create a breading station with three separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: Combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bowl 2: Crack and beat the eggs until they’re smooth and well-combined.
- Bowl 3: Add the breadcrumbs to this bowl, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Coat the Cheese Bites
Once your breading station is ready, it’s time to coat the cheese. Take each piece of string cheese and first dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the beaten egg to ensure the breadcrumbs will stick. Finally, roll the cheese in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure the crumbs adhere to the cheese. Repeat with the rest of the cheese pieces.
4. Freeze the Cheese Bites (Optional but Recommended)
To prevent the cheese from melting too quickly when fried, it’s a good idea to freeze the breaded cheese bites for about 30 minutes before frying. This step helps the coating stay intact while frying and gives you that perfect crispy texture without the cheese oozing out too soon.
5. Heat the Oil
While the cheese bites are chilling, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to reach a temperature of about 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread or a breadcrumb into the oil—if it sizzles and starts to brown quickly, the oil is ready.
6. Fry the Cheese Bites
Carefully add the breaded cheese bites to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if needed. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. The cheese inside should start to melt, creating that delicious gooey center.
7. Drain and Serve
Once your cheese bites are golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them immediately for the best experience!
Serving Suggestions:
While these crispy fried string cheese bites are perfect on their own, you can elevate the experience by serving them with some tasty dipping sauces. Here are a few options to consider:
- Marinara sauce – A classic dip that complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.
- Ranch dressing – Creamy and tangy, ranch is a popular dip for fried cheese bites.
- Buffalo sauce – For a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the rich, gooey cheese.
- Garlic butter – A warm dip with a savory flavor that adds depth to the bites.
Tips for Perfect Fried Cheese Bites:
- Chill before frying: Don’t skip the chilling step! Freezing the breaded cheese bites helps the coating stay crispy and keeps the cheese from melting too quickly.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs: Freshly made breadcrumbs work best for this recipe, as they create a crunchier coating. However, store-bought breadcrumbs will also do the job if you’re short on time.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying too many cheese bites at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy bites. Fry in batches for the crispiest results.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add a bit of cayenne pepper for some heat, or experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for different flavors.
Why You’ll Love These Fried String Cheese Bites:
- Perfect for parties and gatherings: These bites are ideal for sharing with friends and family. Serve them as an appetizer at your next game day or gathering, and watch them disappear!
- Quick and easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip these up in no time.
- Crispy and gooey: The crispy outer layer paired with the gooey cheese inside makes for a satisfying contrast that will leave you craving more.
- Kid-friendly: Kids will love these cheese bites, making them an excellent option for a fun snack or after-school treat.
How to Make These Cheese Bites Ahead of Time:
If you’re planning to make these cheese bites ahead of time, you can prep them and freeze the breaded bites before frying. Simply place the breaded cheese bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the frying time.
How to Store Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftover fried cheese bites, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving them, as they can become soggy.
Final Thoughts:
These Crispy Fried String Cheese Bites are a perfect snack that combines the crunch of breadcrumbs with the gooey, melty goodness of string cheese. They are easy to make, fun to eat, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family snack, or just for yourself, this recipe will be a hit with everyone who loves cheese! Enjoy!