Fried Cheese Balls Recipe: Easy & Crispy Appetizer

Ready for a bite-sized explosion of cheesy goodness?

Imagine golden, crispy spheres that melt in your mouth, revealing a creamy, savory center. These Fried Cheese Balls are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re planning a party, a cozy night in, or just want a fun snack, this recipe is your ticket to cheesy bliss.

Why You’ll Love It

• The perfect balance of crispy exterior and gooey, melty cheese inside.
• They’re quick and easy to make, requiring minimal effort.
• They’re fantastic as appetizers, snacks, or even a fun side dish.
• They’re a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults.
• They’re highly customizable with different cheese and spice options.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these Fried Cheese Balls apart is the double-breading technique. We don’t just dip them once; we bread, chill, and then bread again to create an unbelievably crispy crust. This method ensures that your cheese balls won’t burst open while frying, giving you that perfect texture every single time.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup (226g) Cream Cheese, softened
• 1 cup (113g) Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, a classic choice for meltiness
• 1/2 cup (50g) Shredded Cheddar Cheese, for extra flavor
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 Large Eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs, for the crispy coating
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
• Vegetable Oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and shredded cheddar. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the spices.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the cheese mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the formed cheese balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Place the formed cheese balls in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to chill. This will help them maintain their shape while frying.
5. While the cheese balls are chilling, set up your breading station. Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another shallow dish, and breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
6. Remove the chilled cheese balls from the freezer and roll each one first in the flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and then coat with the breadcrumbs.
7. Place the breaded cheese balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and return them to the freezer for another 15 minutes.
8. Take the cheese balls out from the freezer and repeat the breading process one more time, dipping each ball back in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
9. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
10. Carefully place a few cheese balls at a time into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
11. Remove the fried cheese balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
12. Serve immediately while they are still warm and gooey.

Optional Toppings/Variations

These cheese balls are delicious on their own, but here are some ideas to take them to the next level:

• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• Drizzle with honey or hot honey for a sweet and savory twist.
• Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing for a smoother texture.
• Chilling the cheese balls is crucial for preventing them from melting during frying.
• Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) for optimal frying.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute other types of cheese?
  

  Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, provolone, or gouda to suit your taste. However, avoid using cheeses that don’t melt well.

• Can I make these ahead of time?
  

  Yes, you can prepare and bread the cheese balls ahead of time, then freeze them until you’re ready to fry. No need to thaw before frying; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

• How do I store leftovers?
  

  Store leftover fried cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore some crispiness.

• Can these be baked instead of fried?
  

  Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Note that they won’t be as crispy as the fried version.

• What dipping sauces go well with these cheese balls?
  

  Besides marinara sauce, try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative and personalize your fried cheese balls! Here are a few variations:

• Spicy Cheese Balls: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a kick.
• Herb and Garlic Cheese Balls: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil along with an extra clove of minced garlic.
• Italian Cheese Balls: Mix in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
• Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls: Finely chop 1-2 jalapenos and mix into the cheese mixture for some heat.
• Everything Bagel Cheese Balls: Replace the plain breadcrumbs with everything bagel seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

These fried cheese balls are best served hot, straight out of the fryer. They make a fantastic appetizer for parties or game day gatherings, or as a fun addition to a tapas-style meal. They’re also great as a snack for movie night or a satisfying treat anytime you’re craving something cheesy and comforting. Consider serving them with a variety of dipping sauces to let everyone choose their favorite.

Conclusion

These Fried Cheese Balls are not only incredibly delicious and satisfying, but they’re also a breeze to make. With their crispy exterior and gooey center, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. So, go ahead and gather your ingredients, try this recipe, and let the cheesy goodness begin! Share your creations on social media using #FriedCheeseBalls and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more tasty recipes!