Crispy Fried Mozzarella with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella
8 mozzarella balls (bocconcini or small fresh mozzarella balls; or cut block mozzarella into chunks)
1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Creamy Tomato Sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
½ small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mozzarella
Pat mozzarella balls dry with paper towels.
Set up breading station: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt & pepper.
Roll mozzarella in flour, dip into egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy shell, repeat egg + breadcrumb coating.
Place coated mozzarella on a tray and refrigerate (or freeze for 20 minutes) to help coating stick.
2. Fry the Mozzarella
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot (about 350°F / 175°C).
Fry mozzarella balls in batches for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, basil, salt & pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble & Serve
Spread a generous ladle of creamy tomato sauce onto a plate.
Place crispy fried mozzarella on top.
Garnish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil or chili flakes if desired.
Serve with toasted bread or crostini.
✅ Tips
Make ahead: Bread mozzarella and keep in freezer until ready to fry.
Healthier option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes until crispy.
Pairing: Serve with garlic bread, pasta, or salad for a full meal.