How do I keep the cheese from leaking while baking?

To prevent leaking, make sure the cheese balls are tightly compacted. Chilling the shaped bites for 10–15 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape better. Also, make sure they are fully coated with breadcrumbs for an effective barrier.

Can I make Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites in an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Air fry at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. They may brown faster than in the oven, so keep an eye on them. The air fryer delivers a slightly different texture — crispier outside and still gooey inside.

What’s the best way to serve these at a party?

Serve Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites warm with small dipping bowls of marinara, garlic aioli, or ranch. Arrange them on a wooden platter garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a touch of color. Keeping them on a warming tray also helps maintain the ideal texture throughout your event.

Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites – Easy Party Appetizer

Name: Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490101H47M40S
Total time: PT-490101H47M40S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: provides a gooey, melty texture inside; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: adds sharp, nutty flavor; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: creates a light, crispy outer coating; 2 large eggs: used to bind and help the breadcrumbs stick; 1/2 tsp salt: enhances flavor of the cheeses; 1/4 tsp black pepper: adds mild heat and balance; 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional): garnish for freshness and color

Description

These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Perfect as a party appetizer or snack, they combine shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan, coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: provides a gooey, melty texture inside
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: adds sharp, nutty flavor
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: creates a light, crispy outer coating
2 large eggs: used to bind and help the breadcrumbs stick
1/2 tsp salt: enhances flavor of the cheeses
1/4 tsp black pepper: adds mild heat and balance
1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional): garnish for freshness and color

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk 2 large eggs with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper until smooth.
Form the cheese mixture into golf ball-sized bites using your hands or a spoon.
Dip each cheese ball into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
Roll each egg-coated ball in 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, ensuring a full coating.
Place the coated bites on the lined baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Optionally garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

Chill the cheese mixture for 10 minutes before shaping to make forming bites easier.
Use fresh panko for maximum crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used but will be less crispy.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet — spacing ensures even crisping.
These bites are best served hot and fresh out of the oven for a gooey interior.
To reheat, bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bite
Calories: 110
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0.3g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg