Fried White Cheddar Bites from Zaxby's feature gooey white cheddar cheese enveloped in a golden, crispy breadcrumb coating, delivering a satisfying blend of creamy and crunchy flavors.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese)
- Plate or tray
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
White cheddar cheese is the central ingredient in this recipe, so using a high-quality, fresh cheese will ensure creamy, flavorful bites. Panko breadcrumbs create the signature crispy texture, so avoid substituting with regular breadcrumbs to maintain the desired crunch. Seasoning the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper adds essential flavor to the coating, which enhances the overall taste of the bites. Be sure your vegetable oil is heated to the correct temperature, around 350degF (175degC), for optimal frying results and to prevent greasy or undercooked pieces. Your Fried White Cheddar Bites from Zaxby's copycat menu will deliver the perfect balance of gooey cheese inside and a golden, crispy exterior.
Instructions
- Cut white cheddar cheese into bite-sized cubes.
- Prepare three separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: Add flour.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with milk.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each cheese cube in flour, coating all sides.
- Dip floured cheese cube into egg mixture.
- Roll the cheese cube in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place breaded cheese bites on a plate or tray.
- Repeat steps 3–6 until all cheese cubes are coated.
- Chill coated cheese bites in the freezer for 20–30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, fill deep fryer or pot with vegetable oil (about 2–3 inches deep) and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry cheese bites in batches until golden brown and crispy, 1–2 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon or spider strainer; drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Fried White Cheddar Bites from Zaxby's copycat menu mimic the original's creamy interior and crunchy breadcrumb exterior perfectly. If you can't find white cheddar, a sharp yellow cheddar or a mild mozzarella can substitute without compromising texture. When shaping the bites, chilling the cheese pieces before breading helps maintain their shape and prevents melting during frying. If you lack a deep fryer, a heavy-bottomed pot with enough oil to submerge the bites works well, but monitor the oil temperature closely to avoid burning. Your panko breadcrumbs can be seasoned further with paprika or cayenne for an extra flavor kick.
Tips
Ensure your vegetable oil reaches a consistent temperature of 350degF (175degC) before frying to achieve the perfect golden, crispy exterior without melting the cheese inside. Freezing the breaded cheese bites for 20-30 minutes prior to frying prevents the cheese from leaking out during cooking, maintaining the bite-sized shape. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to safely remove the bites from hot oil and drain excess oil on paper towels for optimal crispness. You can prolong freshness by preparing the bites in advance and storing them properly before frying.
Nutritions
Fried White Cheddar Bites from Zaxby's are rich in protein and calcium, primarily sourced from the 8 oz of white cheddar cheese. The panko breadcrumb coating contributes carbohydrates for energy, while the frying process adds fats, increasing the calorie content. Garlic and onion powders provide minimal additional nutrients alongside sodium and seasoning. Your portion size will impact overall intake, so moderation is key to balancing flavors with nutritional benefits.
Storage
Store leftover Fried White Cheddar Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain their crispiness. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the golden, crunchy texture without melting the cheese too much. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy and diminish the signature crispy bite.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment by substituting white cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor and meltiness profile. Swapping panko breadcrumbs with crushed tortilla chips or seasoned cornflakes creates a crunchier, more textured coating. For a healthier twist, try baking the cheese bites at 400degF (200degC) for 10-12 minutes instead of deep frying, flipping halfway through to ensure golden crispiness. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix enhances the spice and smoky undertones.
Allergies
Fried White Cheddar Bites contain dairy from white cheddar cheese, which may trigger allergic reactions in those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. The use of wheat-based all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs introduces gluten, posing a risk for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Be mindful that the frying oil could also be a concern for people with specific oil allergies, so it's important to check the type used if you have known sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
Fried White Cheddar Bites from Zaxby's are beloved for their crispy golden exterior and rich, creamy white cheddar filling that delivers a satisfying burst of flavor in every bite. The perfect balance of crunchy texture and cheesy indulgence appeals to cheese lovers and snack enthusiasts alike. Your attempt to recreate this menu favorite lets you customize the seasoning and dipping sauces to match your unique taste preferences. Making these bites at home offers a cost-effective, fresh option that rivals the restaurant's signature snack experience.