Air Fryer Cheese Bites: The Perfect Snack
Golden, crispy cheese bites with a gooey melted center, made effortlessly in the air fryer. Perfect for parties, game day, or a quick cheesy snack!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 6 mins
- Total Time: 51 mins (includes freezing)
- Yield: 18-20 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz block cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
- Dipping Sauces:
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Buffalo sauce
Instructions
- Prep cheese: Cut cheese into 1-inch cubes. Freeze for 30 minutes to prevent melting too quickly.
- Set up coating station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and mix panko with spices in a third.
- Bread cheese: Roll each cube in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with panko mixture. Repeat egg and panko for extra crispiness.
- Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray basket with oil. Arrange cheese bites in single layer (work in batches).
- Cook 5-6 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway. Watch closely to prevent cheese leakage.
- Serve immediately with dipping sauces.
Notes
- Double coating prevents cheese bursts
- For spicy version: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne to breadcrumbs
- Gluten-free option: Use almond flour and GF panko
- Storage: Best eaten fresh (reheating makes them less gooey)
- Cheese alternatives: Try brie, gouda, or cheese sticks
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bites
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Find it online: https://us.recipesfood.org/air-fryer-cheese-bites/
