There’s something deeply comforting about fried mozzarella cheese. That first bite — crispy on the outside, stretchy and melty on the inside — never gets old.
I’ve tested this recipe many times in my own kitchen, and freezing the cheese before frying is the one step that makes all the difference.
It’s the secret to keeping the cheese from melting too fast and leaking into the oil.
I use block, square-shaped mozzarella instead of pre-shredded cheese because it melts evenly and holds its shape better. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which affect both texture and melt.
Why These Ingredients Work
- All-purpose flour creates a dry surface, so the egg mixture sticks properly
- Egg + water forms a smooth binding layer that helps breadcrumbs adhere evenly
- Seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor and crunch without needing extra seasoning
- Freezing the breaded cheese firms everything up, preventing blowouts during frying
If you don’t have seasoned breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs or panko work well — just add salt, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to boost flavor.
How I Make Fried Mozzarella Cheese
After slicing the mozzarella into even pieces, I dredge each slice in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and coat it generously with breadcrumbs. I repeat the egg and breadcrumb step if I want extra crunch. Once breaded, I freeze the mozzarella for at least two hours — overnight is even better.
When ready to fry, I heat oil to 350°F and fry the cheese in small batches for about 30–45 seconds per side, just until golden brown. Overcooking will cause the cheese to burst.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Marinara or vodka sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Sweet chili sauce
- Serve with a simple salad or alongside wings for a game-day spread
How to Store Leftovers
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F — avoid the microwave or they’ll turn soggy.
Fried Mozzarella Cheese Recipe
Crispy Fried Mozzarella Cheese Recipe (Better Than Restaurant Style)
Equipment
- Cooking Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 lbs. square shaped mozzarella cheese; sliced into even slices
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; more if needed
- 1 egg; beaten – mire if needed
- ½ cup bread crumbs; seasoned and more if needed
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Slice the mozzarella cheese into even pieces. Then dredge each slice in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and coat it generously with the breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for extra crunch. Once breaded, freeze the mozzarella for at least two hours — overnight is even better.
- When ready to fry, heat oil to 350°F and fry the cheese in small batches for about 30–45 seconds per side, just until golden brown. Overcooking will cause the cheese to burst.
