Prepare the Cheese Filling:

1. Mix the Cheese: In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and Gruyère cheese (if using). If you want to make a blend with cheddar, feel free to swap in half mozzarella and half cheddar for a tangier taste.
2. Form Cheese Balls: Take a tablespoon of the cheese mixture and gently roll it into a small ball. Place the cheese balls on a baking sheet or plate. You’ll want them to be compact so they hold together during frying.

Prepare the Breading:

3. Set Up Breading Stations: In one shallow dish, place ½ cup of flour. In another shallow dish, beat the egg. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick to the cheese ball. Repeat for all cheese balls.

Fry or Air Fry the Bites:

5. Heat the Oil: If frying, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a breadcrumb dropped into the oil sizzles immediately.
6. Fry the Bites: Carefully lower the cheese balls into the hot oil using a slotted spoon, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Air Fryer Option: For a healthier version, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the cheese balls in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops of the balls with cooking spray and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Cool and Serve:

8. Drain Excess Oil: If frying, remove the cheese bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Cool Slightly: Allow the bites to cool for 5 minutes before serving, as the cheese filling will be extremely hot right out of the fryer.

Cut and Serve:

10. Serve with Dipping Sauces: Serve these crispy, cheesy fondue bites with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara sauce, ranch, or even a tangy mustard sauce.