Zaxby's Cheese Bites Recipe

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Before diving into the recipe, let’s chat about what to pair with these cheesy delights. Zaxby’s cheese bites are a wonderful snack, perfect for game days or cozy evenings at home. Serve them alongside a zesty marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

You can also pair them with a fresh garden salad for balance. And for those who appreciate a bit of zest, a side of sliced jalapeños or pickled veggies can add a fun kick.

Let me take you on a little culinary journey today. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden exterior, only to discover a gooey, cheesy center waiting for you. It’s a sensation like no other, isn’t it? Zaxby’s cheese bites have a reputation for being irresistible, and who wouldn’t want to recreate that magic at home?

It’s more than just cheese; it’s an experience. Having whipped these up several times, I can confidently share my secrets. Here’s everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

What is Zaxby’s Cheese Bites Recipe?

Zaxby’s cheese bites are a popular appetizer featuring mozzarella cheese sticks, coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection.

This dish is all about texture – the crunch from the breadcrumbs outside paired with the melting cheese inside makes a delightful contrast. The recipe is simple yet yields results that can compete with any restaurant’s.

How Does It Taste?

The flavor profile is stunningly straightforward yet rich. When you bite into a cheese bite, the first sensation is the crisp coating. Then, a warm wave of mozzarella hits your palate.

If you opt for the cayenne pepper, you might also get a slight zing that perfectly elevates the experience. The perfect pairing of crunch and creaminess is simply divine.

Why You’ll Love This

What’s not to love? These cheese bites are easy to make, and they give you control over the ingredients. You can customize them to fit your taste preferences.

Moreover, they are a fantastic way to impress guests while keeping things simple. Soon enough, your friends and family will be asking for your take on those Zaxby’s cheese bites!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients:

2 large eggs
¼ cup whole milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
10 oz mozzarella string cheese (about 10 sticks)
A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Setup

Start by gathering everything you need. This includes your ingredients, bowls for mixing, and a frying pan. Set your frying oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, about two inches deep.

Step 2: Slice the Cheese Sticks

Cut the mozzarella sticks in half. This way, you’ll create bite-sized pieces that are perfect for snacking. Some may like them whole, but half is the right call for a quick munch.

Step 3: Create Your Dipping Stations

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. In another bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, and in a third bowl, place your breadcrumbs and cayenne pepper if you chose to add it. You’ll have an assembly line: flour, then egg mixture, then breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Coat the Cheese Sticks

Take each piece of mozzarella, coat it gently in the flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it well with breadcrumbs. Make sure that they are completely covered to ensure a perfect crunch after frying.

Step 5: Fry Them Up

Once your cheese bites are all coated, gently place them in the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Keep an eye on them – no one likes burnt cheese!

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Use tongs to remove the cheese bites from the oil and allow them to drain on a paper towel. This step helps to rid them of excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips on Making Zaxby’s Cheese Bites Recipe

Use Fresh Cheese: Fresh mozzarella sticks result in a better melting experience.
Thermometer Check: Ensure your oil is at 350°F. Too hot and the outside will burn before the cheese melts, too cool and they’ll become greasy.
Batch Cooking: If you’re making a lot, do it in batches. Frying too many at once can drop the oil temperature.
Leftover Cheese: Don’t let the extra cheese go to waste. The breading will stay crispier if you store them separately before frying.
Bake Instead: If you want a healthier alternative, bake the cheese bites at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Use a cooking spray to help achieve that crunch.

How Do You Store This Zaxby’s Cheese Bites Recipe?

You can store leftover cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, place them back into an oven or air fryer to revitalize that crispiness, rather than microwaving. This will help avoid a rubbery texture.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Zaxby’s Cheese Bites Recipe?

If you want to mix things up, consider these alternatives:

Pepper Jack Cheese: Offers a spicy kick that complements the crispy coating well.
Cheddar Cheese: For those who prefer a sharper taste, cheddar has the richness that is hard to resist.
String Cheese Alternatives: Mozzarella is great, but you can also use provolone or gouda for unique flavors.
Breadcrumb Variations: Swap out the Italian-style breadcrumbs for panko to add more texture.
Spices: Feel free to play around with different seasonings in your breadcrumb mixture, like Italian seasoning or smoked paprika.

Zaxby’s Cheese Bites Recipe

Kimberly Booker RD

Try this delicious Zaxby’s cheese bites recipe for a crispy, cheesy snack that’s perfect for any occasion! Easy to make and full of flavor.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Total Time 20

Course Sides

Cuisine American

Servings Servings

Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

Deep skillet

Ingredients

2 large eggs
¼ cup whole milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
10 oz mozzarella string cheese about 10 sticks
A pinch of cayenne pepper optional, adds a mild heat
½ teaspoon garlic powder for a savory kick