Go Back
–+ servings
The Ultimate Guide to Golden, Gooey Fried Mozzarella – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

The Ultimate Guide to Golden, Gooey Fried Mozzarella

Elevate the classic appetizer with this recipe for thick, glorious slices of fried mozzarella, featuring a perfectly golden, herby, and crispy crust with a gloriously gooey, melted cheese center. This simple recipe delivers a restaurant-quality crunch and cheese-pull every time.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 serving
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs / 680g (24 oz) low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • 1⅓ cups / 160g (5.6 oz) fine, dry bread crumbs
  • 3 to 4 Tbs finely minced fresh parsley
  • 2 large eggs
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 to 4 Tbs / 30g (1.06 oz) all-purpose flour
  • ½ to ⅓ cup / 80-120 ml (4.1 fl oz) olive oil, for frying
  • Slices of melon or marinara sauce, for serving
  • Pro-Tips for Perfect Fried Mozzarella
  • For a guaranteed no-leak fry, place the breaded mozzarella slices in the freezer for 15-30 minutes before frying. This helps the cheese set and prevents it from melting too quickly.
  • Ensure your oil is hot but not smoking (around 350°F / 175°C). If the oil isn't hot enough, the breading will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
  • Use low-moisture, whole-milk mozzarella (the kind sold in a block, not fresh mozzarella in water) for the best melting texture and easiest handling.

Method
 

  1. Slice the mozzarella into uniform pieces, about ¼-inch (0. 6 cm) thick.
  2. Prepare your dredging station.
  3. In a shallow bowl, thoroughly combine the bread crumbs and minced parsley.
  4. In a second bowl, lightly beat the eggs with a splash of water, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
  5. In a third bowl, place the flour.
  6. Working with one slice at a time, dredge the mozzarella in the flour, coating all sides and edges. Shake off any excess.
  7. Dip the floured slice into the egg mixture, then press it firmly into the bread crumb mixture. For an extra-thick, secure crust, dip it back into the egg and then once more into the bread crumbs. Ensure the entire slice, especially the edges, is completely sealed.
  8. Place the breaded slices on a plate or baking sheet.
  9. Repeat with all remaining mozzarella.
  10. Pour olive oil into two large skillets to a depth of about ¼ inch and heat over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  11. Carefully place the cheese slices in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  12. Sauté for 1-2 minutes per side, until the crust is a deep golden brown and crispy.
  13. Remove the fried mozzarella from the skillet and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate for a moment to drain excess oil.
  14. Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and melted.
  15. Garnish and serve with fresh slices of melon for a sweet contrast, or a side of warm marinara sauce for a classic pairing.
  16. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  17. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature, which ensures each slice gets a perfectly crispy and evenly browned crust.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 28gFat: 32g

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!