Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until mixed well for an even distribution of flavors.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and whisk them together with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This will help the coating stick and boost flavor.
- Shape the Cheese Mixture: Take a small amount of the cheese mixture and form it into golf ball-sized bites. Press gently to ensure they hold their shape.
- Bread Each Bite: Dip each cheese ball into the egg wash, coating thoroughly, then roll in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. This adds crunch and keeps the cheese inside while baking.
- Bake the Bites: Arrange the coated bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the outside is crisp and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the cheese mixture.
- Chilling the cheese balls for 15 minutes before breading helps them hold their shape.
- Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dip for added tastiness.
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg