🧀 Crispy Breaded Provolone Cheese Bites – The Ultimate Party Snack
Melty, crunchy, and absolutely addictive!
Looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing snack? These crispy breaded provolone cheese bites check all the boxes. With a golden crust and gooey cheese interior, they offer a satisfying contrast of textures in every bite. They’re quick to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for serving at parties, as appetizers, or just when you’re craving something indulgent and cheesy.
Ingredients
- 500g (17.6 oz) provolone cheese, cut into cubes
- 2 eggs
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Optional add-ins: garlic powder, paprika, Italian herbs, or chili flakes for enhanced flavor.
How to Prepare Crispy Provolone Bites
- Prep the coating: In a bowl, beat the eggs lightly with the salt. In a separate shallow dish, spread out the breadcrumbs. Add your favorite herbs or spices if desired.
- Coat the cheese: Dip each provolone cube into the egg mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Then roll the cube in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.
- Chill for best results (optional but recommended): Place the coated cubes on a tray and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. This step helps the coating stay intact and minimizes cheese leakage when frying.
- Fry to perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot (around 175°C / 350°F), carefully fry the cheese cubes in small batches for about 2–3 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Turn occasionally for even browning.
- Drain & serve: Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to remove excess grease. Serve immediately while they’re still warm and melty inside.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy cheese bites with a variety of dips to enhance the experience:
- Marinara or pizza sauce
- Spicy ketchup or sriracha mayo
- Garlic aioli or ranch dressing
They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or as a snack with a cold beer, soda, or sparkling water.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Oil temperature matters: Use a thermometer or drop a breadcrumb in the oil—it should sizzle and rise immediately.
- Breadcrumbs tip: Use fresh breadcrumbs or Panko for extra crunch. You can even double-coat the cheese (egg → breadcrumbs → egg → breadcrumbs) for a thicker crust.
- Make ahead: You can coat the cheese cubes in advance and freeze them. Just fry directly from frozen—add an extra 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.
🥳 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These provolone cheese bites are everything you love about comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and bite-sized. They’re versatile, affordable, and always a hit with guests. Whether you’re planning a casual movie night or a festive gathering, these will be the first thing to disappear from the table.
