What could be better than biting into a warm, gooey cheese ball with a crispy outside and creamy center?
These Irresistible Fried Cheese Balls are the ultimate appetizer that will elevate any occasion!
Ingredients
For the cheese balls:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Use your hands or a small scoop to form the cheese mixture into small 1-inch balls.
Step 3: Set up a station with three bowls—one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Dredge each cheese ball in the flour, dip it in the eggs, and roll it in the breadcrumb mixture to coat completely.
Step 5: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the cheese balls in small batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Step 6: Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil, and drain them on paper towels. Serve warm!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls in advance, coat them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
2. Can I bake these cheese balls instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
3. What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or Swiss for a unique flavor twist.
4. Can I freeze the cheese balls?
Yes, freeze the uncooked cheese balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Fry or bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. What can I serve these with?
Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for dipping!
Irresistible Fried Cheese Balls
Ingredients
For the cheese balls:
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Use your hands or a small scoop to form the cheese mixture into small 1-inch balls.
- Set up a station with three bowls—one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each cheese ball in the flour, dip it in the eggs, and roll it in the breadcrumb mixture to coat completely.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the cheese balls in small batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil, and drain them on paper towels. Serve warm!
