A sizzling sound filled the air as I prepped for my weekend gathering, and that’s when it hit me—nothing elevates a casual get-together quite like a plate of Blackstone Fried Mozzarella. Imagine crispy, panko-encrusted bites, perfectly fried to a golden brown, with gooey melted cheese just waiting to be dipped in warm, homemade marinara. This appetizer is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a breeze to whip up. Plus, using a Blackstone griddle ensures that every slice turns out wonderfully crispy without the hassle of deep-frying. You’ll feel like a gourmet chef right in your own backyard! Ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering treat? Let’s dive into the delicious details together!
Why is Blackstone Fried Mozzarella a Must-Try?
Irresistible Crispiness: Each bite of these fried mozzarella sticks offers a sensational crunch, thanks to the panko coating that locks in the gooey cheese.
Homemade Goodness: Paired with a quick and easy homemade marinara, this recipe lets you create a gourmet appetizer right at home.
Quick Cook Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or game day snacks.
Versatile Dipping Options: Enjoy with classic marinara or try out new dips like ranch or pesto for a fun twist! Ready to recreate this culinary delight? Check out Fried Pina Colada for more inspiration!
Audience Favorite: It’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends, making your gatherings memorable.
Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Coating
- Fresh Mozzarella – The star of this dish, providing a creamy, gooey center.
- Flour (½ cup) – Helps the egg wash adhere, creating a solid base for the crispy exterior.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon) – Adds a delightful hint of flavor to the coating.
For the Egg Mixture
- Egg (1 large, beaten) – Acts as a binding agent to keep everything together.
- Milk (2 tablespoons) – Enhances the egg mix for better adherence to the cheese.
For the Crunchy Coating
- Panko breadcrumbs (2 cups) – Offers that irresistible crunch, making the Blackstone Fried Mozzarella truly special.
- Olive oil (½ cup + 1 tablespoon) – Essential for frying and enhancing the flavor of your marinara sauce.
For the Marinara Sauce
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Infuses the sauce with warmth and depth.
- Tomato puree (1 cup) – The foundation of your homemade marinara, offering rich tomato flavor.
- Salt (½ teaspoon), Onion powder (½ teaspoon), Pepper (¼ teaspoon), Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon) – Season to taste for a flavorful and balanced sauce.
Feel ready to whip up this delicious Blackstone Fried Mozzarella? Grab your ingredients, and let’s make some magic on the griddle!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Stations
Start by setting up three separate plates. In one, combine flour and garlic powder. In the second bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk until smooth. Finally, fill the third plate with panko breadcrumbs. This setup ensures that each mozzarella slice gets evenly coated, setting the stage for delicious Blackstone Fried Mozzarella.
Step 2: Bread the Mozzarella Slices
Take your fresh mozzarella slices and first dip them into the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Next, submerge the slices in the egg and milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the mozzarella in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Lay the breaded slices on parchment paper as you finish coating them all.
Step 3: Freeze to Solidify
Once all the mozzarella slices are breaded, place them in the freezer for at least 30-60 minutes. This crucial step allows the breading to freeze solid, preventing the cheese from melting too quickly while frying. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel firm to the touch.
Step 4: Make the Marinara Sauce
While the mozzarella is chilling, prepare your homemade marinara sauce. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in the tomato puree. Season with salt, onion powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Preheat the Blackstone Griddle
Next, preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium heat. Allow it to heat for about 5 minutes, giving it a chance to reach the right temperature for frying. Once heated, drizzle a generous amount of olive oil across the griddle surface to ensure even frying for your Blackstone Fried Mozzarella.
Step 6: Fry the Mozzarella Slices
Carefully place the chilled, breaded mozzarella slices onto the griddle, ensuring there’s enough space between them to cook evenly. Fry on one side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the slices and fry again for another 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden color, adding more oil as necessary.
Step 7: Serve with Marinara
Once the mozzarella is beautifully golden and crispy, remove them from the griddle and let them drain briefly on paper towels. Serve your delightful Blackstone Fried Mozzarella immediately, along with the warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy this homemade treat hot, with the gooey cheese oozing from each slice!
Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Variations
Get creative with your Blackstone Fried Mozzarella by exploring these delightful twists that will awaken your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute fresh mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives for a plant-based version, perfect for lactose intolerant friends.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the flour mixture for added heat that will elevate your dish to the next level.
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Italian Herb Infusion: Add dried basil, oregano, and thyme to your panko coating for an aromatic twist that sings of Italy, enhancing each cheesy bite.
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Crunchy Coating: Swap regular panko with crushed potato chips for an unexpected crunch that’s sure to surprise and delight your guests!
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Sweet & Savory: Dip your fried mozzarella in honey or drizzle it with balsamic glaze for a unique flavor combination that balances the richness of the cheese.
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Stuffed Mozzarella: Wrap a slice of pepperoni or prosciutto around each mozzarella piece before breading for a fun and flavorful surprise in each bite.
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Asian Flair: Try using sesame seeds mixed in with your breadcrumbs and serve with sweet chili sauce as a delightful dipping option.
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Herbaceous Marinara: Add chopped fresh basil or parsley to your homemade marinara sauce for a refreshing burst of flavor that perfectly complements your crispy mozzarella.
Each of these variations will take your beloved Blackstone Fried Mozzarella to new heights! For more mouthwatering ideas, you may want to check out Fried Pina Colada or explore another delicious appetizer that could tickle your palate!
What to Serve with Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
Treat your taste buds to a memorable selection of sides and pairings that elevate your cheese-filled delight into a full culinary experience.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasty flavor of garlic bread beautifully complements the rich, gooey mozzarella, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
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Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad of tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balances flavors with its bright acidity, making it a perfect foil for the fried goodness.
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Zucchini Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these veggie fries introduce a lighter element while still delivering a satisfying crunch.
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Herbed Quinoa: A warm, fluffy quinoa dish packed with herbs offers a nutritious counterpoint to the richness of mozzarella, enhancing the overall meal.
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Roasted Red Peppers: Their sweet, smoky flavor pairs excellently with fried mozzarella, creating a delightful contrast in taste and texture.
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Italian Soda: A fizzy, sweet beverage provides an effervescent lift, cleansing the palate between bites, making every flavor pop.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm chocolate lava cake that brings a decadent sweetness after the savory fare, leaving everyone delighted.
Storage Tips for Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
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Fridge: Store leftover Blackstone Fried Mozzarella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven set to 375°F until warmed through.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the breaded mozzarella slices before frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen mozzarella slices directly on the Blackstone griddle or in the oven until they are golden brown and heated through, ensuring a crunchy exterior.
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Avoid Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave cooked mozzarella out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain quality.
Expert Tips for Blackstone Fried Mozzarella
- Chill the Coating: Freezing the breaded mozzarella for at least an hour is essential. This step prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and ensures optimal crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the mozzarella slices in batches without crowding the griddle. This allows hot air to circulate freely, achieving that unbeatable crunchy texture.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your griddle is at medium heat. If it’s too hot, the breadcrumbs may burn before the cheese melts, compromising your Blackstone Fried Mozzarella.
- Test for Doneness: Keep an eye on the mozzarella as it fries. A perfect slice is golden brown on both sides and has a gooey center, so watch closely!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil to your breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful twist to your dish.
- Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the fried mozzarella immediately after cooking. This ensures every bite is hot, cheesy, and irresistibly crunchy!
Make Ahead Options
These Blackstone Fried Mozzarella bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the mozzarella slices and freeze them up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring they lock in that irresistible crunch when fried later. To do this, coat the mozzarella according to the recipe and place them on parchment paper before freezing for at least 30-60 minutes until firm. Once ready to cook, simply preheat your Blackstone griddle and fry the frozen mozzarella slices directly—no thawing needed. This way, you’ll always have a delicious, ready-to-go appetizer waiting for you, making your busy weeknights feel like a gourmet experience!
Blackstone Fried Mozzarella Recipe FAQs
What kind of mozzarella works best for frying?
Absolutely, fresh mozzarella is ideal for frying due to its creamy texture that melts beautifully. However, if you prefer a firmer texture, you can use aged mozzarella. Just keep in mind that it may not melt as thoroughly.
How should I store leftover Blackstone Fried Mozzarella?
To preserve your leftovers, place the cooled slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For optimal crispiness when reheating, I recommend using the oven set to 375°F until warmed through, rather than the microwave.
Can I freeze the breaded mozzarella before frying?
Yes! This is a great way to have an easy appetizer on hand. After breading your mozzarella slices, lay them single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, you can fry them directly from the freezer—no thawing needed!
What can I do if the mozzarella is melting too quickly while frying?
If you notice that your mozzarella is melting too quickly, it could be due to insufficient freezing. Make sure to freeze the breaded slices until firm. Also, ensure your griddle is not set too high; medium heat is best for evenly golden and crispy results. If it starts to melt, reduce the heat slightly.
Any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you are accommodating dietary needs, you can substitute the flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, using non-dairy milk in the egg mixture makes this recipe lactose-friendly. Just remember that the use of panko breadcrumbs means it may still contain gluten unless specified otherwise.
How long can cooked mozzarella stay out at room temperature?
It’s best to avoid leaving cooked mozzarella out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After this time, bacteria can grow and compromise food safety. If you’re serving at a gathering, try to keep it warm in an oven until it’s time to enjoy!
Crispy Blackstone Fried Mozzarella with Marinara Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the breading stations by setting up three plates: one with flour and garlic powder, second with whisked egg and milk, and third with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the mozzarella slices by coating in flour, dipping in the egg mixture, and rolling in panko breadcrumbs.
- Freeze the breaded slices for 30-60 minutes until firm.
- Make the marinara sauce by sautéing minced garlic in olive oil, adding tomato puree, and seasoning with salt, onion powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Preheat the Blackstone griddle on medium heat for about 5 minutes.
- Fry the mozzarella slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
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