Go Back
airy Italian-style snack bites on plate with marinara sauce and herbs

Small Bite Recipes Inspired by Italian Cafes

Chef Enzo, an Italian-American cuisine expert from Eat Every Slice, smiling while enjoying a plate of homemade pasta garnished with fresh basil.Enzo R.
Small bite recipes inspired by Italian cafes are baked, bite sized snacks made with Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, and Italian herbs. These easy Italian inspired bites are perfect for relaxed entertaining, coffee breaks, and casual snack boards served with marinara for dipping.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Italian American
Servings 20 bites
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Cafe Style Small Bites

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese cut into small pieces
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for drizzling

For Serving

  • 1 cup marinara sauce warmed
  • fresh herbs optional garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic.
  • Add the eggs and mix until the mixture holds together when pressed.
  • Fold in mozzarella cheese pieces until evenly distributed.
  • Shape the mixture into small bite sized balls or patties and place on the baking sheet.
  • Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake until golden and firm to the touch.
  • Cool slightly and serve warm or at room temperature with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

These cafe style bites can be baked ahead and reheated in the oven for best texture. They also freeze well after baking and can be reheated until warmed through.
Keyword Easy Baked Appetizers, Italian Cafe Snacks, Italian Snack Bites, Small Bite Appetizers