Description
Mozz Tots are crispy, golden-brown bites made from mozzarella sticks coated in a seasoned panko and Parmesan crust, then deep-fried to perfection. These irresistible appetizers are perfect for parties or snack time, served warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 12 (1-oz.) mozzarella sticks
Coating
- 1/3 cup (40 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Kosher salt, a pinch
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 oz Parmesan, finely grated (about 1 cup)
Frying
- Vegetable oil, about 4 cups, for frying
Serving
- Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare mozzarella: Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Cut each stick crosswise into three equal pieces to create bite-sized tots.
- Set up dredging stations: Place the flour in a small shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, lightly beat the eggs together with a pinch of kosher salt until smooth. In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and finely grated Parmesan cheese.
- Coat the mozzarella pieces: Working with 2 to 3 pieces at a time, dredge each mozzarella tot in the flour, coating evenly on all sides. Next, dip them into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well. Arrange the breaded tots in a single layer on a small parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze the tots: Freeze the coated mozzarella tots until the cheese is just frozen, about 90 minutes to 2 hours. If frozen longer, the cheese inside will remain too hard after frying; if this happens, thaw completely and refreeze for 90 minutes before frying.
- Heat oil for frying: Place a large wire rack on a baking sheet to drain fried tots. In a medium pot, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 2 inches. Heat over medium-high heat until a deep-fry or instant-read thermometer registers 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the mozzarella tots: Fry 5 to 6 tots at a time, individually lowering each one gently into the hot oil with a slotted spoon to prevent sticking. Fry until golden brown, about one minute. Remove tots with the slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared wire rack. Adjust the heat to maintain a consistent 375°F during frying.
- Serve: Arrange the golden mozz tots on a platter and serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the mozzarella sticks dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Freezing the coated tots before frying prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and helps maintain shape.
- Fry the tots individually or in small batches to avoid clumping together in the oil.
- Use a thermometer to maintain precise oil temperature for best crispiness.
- These are best enjoyed immediately while hot and crispy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
