Easy Fried Cheese Bites

1. Prepare the cheese:
   • Cut the cheese into bite-sized cubes or sticks. Mozzarella string cheese works great for this!
2. Set up a breading station:
   • In one bowl, place the flour.
   • In a second bowl, whisk the egg.
   • In a third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the cheese:
   • Dip each cheese cube or stick into the flour, making sure it’s lightly coated.
   • Then dip it into the egg, letting any excess egg drip off.
   • Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Fry the cheese bites:
   • Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the breaded cheese bites into the oil, working in batches if necessary. Fry for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the cheese bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the fried cheese bites immediately while they are warm and gooey on the inside. You can pair them with marinara sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Enjoy your crispy, melty cheese bites!