Irresistibly Crispy Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Irresistibly Crispy Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites are a high-protein, gluten-free snack perfect for any time of day. Crispy on the outside with a gooey, cheesy center, they’re simple to make and endlessly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese, drained well
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (cheddar or provolone can be used for variation)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup almond flour (or oat flour for a nut-free option)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or your air fryer to 370°F.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Step 3: Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and gently shape them into bite-sized mounds. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray or in the air fryer basket with enough space between to avoid crowding.
4. Step 4: Bake in the oven for 18–20 minutes or air fry for 12–15 minutes until golden and crispy on the outside.
5. Step 5: Allow the bites to rest for 2–3 minutes to firm up before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Brush the tops with olive oil before baking for an extra crunchy and golden crust.
• Use oat flour instead of almond flour for a softer, nut-free bite.
• Try different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a richer flavor.
• Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives for a fresh aroma.
• For a spicy kick, mix in chili flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika.
• Substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg for a vegan-friendly version, though the texture will be softer.
• Mix in finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrients and color.

Storage

Store cooked Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and crispiness. To freeze, arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a preheated oven or air fryer to restore their crisp texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I know if my cottage cheese is suitable for making these bites?

Choose fresh cottage cheese that isn’t watery. Drain it thoroughly before using to avoid soggy bites and ensure a firm, crispy texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy rather than using a microwave.

Irresistibly Crispy Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 87 reviews

Crispy, high-protein, and gluten-free Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites that make a perfect quick snack or appetizer. These bites combine creamy cottage cheese and mozzarella with almond flour and egg for a deliciously firm and cheesy treat with a golden, crispy exterior.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizers
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Bites

• 1 cup Cottage Cheese – Drain well to keep your bites firm and avoid sogginess.
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides cheesy stretch and rich flavor; cheddar or provolone can be used as alternatives.
• 1 Large Egg – Acts as a binder; flax or chia egg can substitute for vegan versions but yields a softer texture.
• ¼ cup Almond Flour – Adds structure and crunch, gluten-free; swap with oat flour for a nut-free option.
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder (optional) – Adds subtle savory depth.
• Pinch of Salt & Pepper – To balance and enhance flavors.

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven or Air Fryer: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) or air fryer to 370°F to ensure even, crispy cooking from the start.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly blend drained cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
3. Shape Bites: Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and gently form bite-sized mounds. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking tray or air fryer basket to prevent crowding and ensure even cooking.
4. Cook Until Golden: Bake for 18–20 minutes in the oven or air fry for 12–15 minutes until the bites have a golden, crispy exterior.
5. Let Rest: Allow the bites to cool for 2–3 minutes to firm up and maintain the crispy outside with a gooey interior before serving.

Notes

• Brush tops with olive oil before baking for extra crunch and golden color.
• Drain cottage cheese thoroughly to prevent sogginess and achieve firm texture.
• Avoid overcrowding baking trays or air fryer baskets to promote even browning and crispiness.
• Substitute almond flour with oat flour for nut-free, softer bites.
• Use flax or chia egg for a vegan dairy-free version, but expect a slightly softer texture.
• Store cooked bites in an airtight container refrigerated up to 4 days; freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving which causes sogginess.

Keywords: Cottage Cheese Bites, Mozzarella Snacks, High Protein Appetizer, Gluten Free Snacks, Crispy Cheese Bites, Healthy Snacks