Crispy Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites – Better Than Arby’s!

Name: Crispy Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites – Better Than Arby’s!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 Cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 Cup sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 Tbsp vanilla extract; 3 Cups all-purpose flour; 1 Tsp baking powder; 8 Oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 Cup powdered sugar; 1 Tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 Cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 Tbsp cinnamon (for coating)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into a golden, crispy exterior only to discover a molten core of stretchy mozzarella and savory parmesan—especially when it’s homemade and even better than your favorite fast-food version.

If you’ve ever craved Arby’s famous mozzarella sticks but wished they were crispier, cheesier, and made with real ingredients, you’re in the right place. These Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites are the ultimate upgrade:

✔ Extra-crunchy panko-parmesan coating (no soggy breading here!)
✔ Double-cheese filling (mozzarella and parmesan for maximum flavor)
✔ Ready in under 30 minutes (faster than delivery!)
✔ Perfect for dipping (try them with marinara, ranch, or spicy honey!)

As a professional chef, I’ve tested dozens of variations to nail this recipe—and I’m sharing all my secrets to help you avoid *leaky cheese, bland coating, or greasy bites. Whether you need a **game-day snack, party appetizer, or midnight treat, these bites will *steal the show.

Ready to make the crispiest, cheesiest mozzarella bites of your life? Let’s get cooking!

✨ Why You’ll Love Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites

If you’re obsessed with Arby’s mozzarella sticks but want a homemade version that’s crispier, cheesier, and way more satisfying, these bites are your new go-to! They feature:
✔ Golden, panko-parmesan crust (extra crunch!)
✔ Melted mozzarella & parmesan center (double the cheese!)
✔ Perfect for dipping (marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo!)

Ideal for:

Game day snacks 🏈
Party appetizers 🎉
Late-night cravings 🌙

📝 Ingredients (With Substitutions)

For the Cheese Bites

2 cups (226g) mozzarella cheese, cubed (or string cheese for easier prep)
½ cup (50g) grated parmesan (the real stuff, not powdered!)
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
2 large eggs, beaten (or buttermilk for extra crispiness)
1 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs (regular breadcrumbs work too)
1 tsp garlic powder (or smoked paprika for a kick)
1 tsp Italian seasoning

For Frying

2 cups vegetable oil (or air fry at 400°F for lighter version)

For Serving

1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

(Pro Tip: Add *1 tbsp cornstarch to flour for extra crunch!)*

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Cheese

Cut mozzarella into 1-inch cubes.
Freeze 30 minutes (prevents melting too fast).

2. Create the Breading Station

Bowl 1: Flour + garlic powder.
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
Bowl 3: Panko + parmesan + Italian seasoning.

3. Bread & Fry

Dip cheese in flour → egg → breadcrumbs (double-coat for extra crunch!).
Fry in 375°F oil for 1-2 minutes until golden. Drain on paper towels.

(🔥 Secret Trick: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature!)

Crispy golden Parmesan Mozzarella Bites with melted cheese pull and marinara dip — These homemade Mozzarella Bites put Arby’s to shame – just look at that perfect cheese pull!

💡 Chef Andrew’s Pro Tips

✔ Freeze cheese before frying – No leakage!
✔ Use a thermometer – Oil at 375°F ensures crispiness without burning.
✔ Serve immediately – They’re best piping hot!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions*

Does mozzarella melt better than parmesan?

Absolutely! Mozzarella has superior melting qualities due to its higher moisture content (45-52% vs Parmesan’s 30%). That’s why we use it as the main melty cheese in these bites, while Parmesan adds flavor to the crispy coating.

How do you make cheesy mozzarella parmesan bites?

Our recipe uses a simple 3-step process: (1) Coat frozen mozzarella cubes in flour, egg, then a panko-Parmesan mix, (2) Deep fry at 375°F for 1-2 minutes until golden, and (3) Serve immediately with marinara. Freezing the cheese first prevents leakage!

Does parmesan and mozzarella taste good together?

They’re a match made in heaven! Mozzarella provides creamy mildness while Parmesan adds a salty, umami punch. This combo creates the perfect balance in every bite – creamy interior with a flavor-packed crust.

Is parmesan the same as mozzarella cheese?

Not at all! Mozzarella is a soft, fresh cheese with high moisture, while Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) is a hard, aged cheese. Mozzarella melts beautifully for the filling, while grated Parmesan enhances the crispy breadcrumb coating.

Does hard Parmesan cheese melt?

Parmesan doesn’t melt smoothly like mozzarella due to its low moisture and aged texture. When heated, it tends to oil out rather than stretch. That’s why we use it in the coating where it adds incredible flavor to the crispy exterior.