Breeze Cheese Bites from Bahama Breeze feature golden, crispy fried cheese bites filled with a gooey blend of melted cheeses, served with a zesty marinara dipping sauce, offering a savory and satisfying appetizer experience.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Baking tray (for draining or holding)
- Saucepan (for marinara sauce)
- Cheese grater
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Small serving bowls (for dipping sauce)
Ingredients
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese
- 8 oz cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce, optional)
- 2 cloves garlic (for sauce, optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for sauce, optional)
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
Mozzarella and cheddar cheeses should be evenly mixed and grated for a consistent texture inside the cheese bites. Use panko breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful, crispy coating. Make sure the oil temperature stays around 350degF for perfectly fried bites that are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. For the marinara dipping sauce, using fresh garlic, olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes enhances the flavor and adds a zesty kick. Your Breeze Cheese Bites from Bahama Breeze copycat menu can deliver the same golden, crispy, and cheesy appetizer experience when these ingredient tips are followed precisely.
Instructions
- Grate mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Mix grated cheeses together in a bowl.
- Form cheese mixture into bite-sized balls.
- Place cheese balls on baking tray and freeze for 30–60 minutes.
- Prepare three bowls:
- 1st: all-purpose flour (seasoned with salt and pepper)
- 2nd: whisk eggs with milk
- 3rd: panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, black pepper
- Dredge frozen cheese balls in flour, then dip in egg mixture, then coat in panko mixture.
- Return coated cheese bites to baking tray and chill in freezer for another 10–15 minutes.
- Preheat deep fryer or oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry cheese bites in batches until golden brown and crisp (about 1–2 minutes).
- Remove with slotted spoon or spider strainer; drain on paper towel-lined tray.
- For marinara sauce (optional):
- Heat olive oil in saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in marinara sauce and crushed red pepper flakes; heat through.
- Serve hot Breeze Cheese Bites with marinara sauce in small bowls.
- Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
Substitution
Breeze Cheese Bites from Bahama Breeze copycat menu deliver a crispy, golden exterior with a rich, melted cheese center perfect for any appetizer spread. If you cannot find mozzarella or cheddar, a blend of provolone and Monterey Jack can provide a similar creamy melt and flavor. Using a deep fryer ensures even cooking and a crunchy texture, but a heavy skillet with enough oil for shallow frying works well if a fryer is unavailable. When making the marinara sauce, store-bought sauce can be enhanced with sauteed garlic, olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes for added depth. Your leftover cheese bites can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness better than microwaving.
Tips
Make sure to freeze the cheese bites thoroughly before frying to prevent them from melting too quickly and leaking oil. Maintain the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) for even cooking and a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the bites promptly and drain them on paper towels to avoid greasiness. When preparing marinara sauce, saute garlic gently to avoid bitterness and enhance the sauce's flavor, complementing your cheese bites perfectly.
Nutritions
Breeze Cheese Bites from Bahama Breeze provide a rich source of protein and calcium primarily from mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, supporting bone health and muscle function. The deep-frying process adds significant calories and fat, mostly from vegetable oil, which increases the appetizer's overall energy density. Panko breadcrumbs contribute a modest amount of carbohydrates and fiber, while the marinara sauce adds antioxidants like lycopene and vitamins from tomatoes. To balance your intake, consider pairing these bites with a fresh salad for added fiber and nutrients.
Storage
Store leftover Breeze Cheese Bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain their crispy texture. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 8-10 minutes to restore their golden, crunchy exterior without making them soggy. Your marinara dipping sauce can be kept separately in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to one week to preserve its fresh flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses with a mix of pepper jack and Monterey Jack for a spicier, creamier bite. Instead of deep frying, try baking the cheese bites at 400degF (200degC) for about 12-15 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior with less oil. To enhance the marinara sauce, add a splash of red wine and a pinch of sugar for balanced acidity and richer flavor. Toss the breadcrumb mixture with finely chopped fresh parsley or oregano for a fresher herb aroma in the coating.
Allergies
Breeze Cheese Bites contain dairy ingredients such as mozzarella and cheddar cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The panko breadcrumbs used in coating the bites contain wheat, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. If you have nut, egg, or garlic allergies, review the ingredients carefully, as eggs and garlic powder are also included in the recipe.
Why this recipe?
Breeze Cheese Bites from Bahama Breeze are loved for their crispy golden exterior and creamy, perfectly melted cheese center, creating a delightful texture contrast in every bite. Flavored with a blend of spices and herbs, these bites offer a savory taste that captures the essence of island-inspired comfort food. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this popular appetizer at home, ensuring fresh ingredients and customizable seasoning to suit Your personal palate. This hands-on approach delivers convenience and satisfaction without waiting for a restaurant visit.