Description
Crispy Fried Cheese Balls are golden and crunchy on the outside, with a melty, gooey cheese core inside. This appetizer combines mozzarella, cheddar, and cream cheese seasoned with garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Coated in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, then deep-fried to perfection, these cheese balls are perfect party snacks or indulgent treats that are quick to prepare and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Mix the Cheese: In a large bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, cheddar, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
- Form Cheese Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture and roll it tightly into a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture to form 20–24 cheese balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Place the baking sheet with cheese balls in the freezer for 20–30 minutes to firm them up, making them easier to coat and fry.
- Coat the Cheese Balls: Once chilled, roll each cheese ball in all-purpose flour. Then dip them into the beaten eggs, followed by a coat of breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating.
- Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil to fully submerge the cheese balls.
- Fry Cheese Balls: Fry cheese balls in batches for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides, carefully turning them as needed.
- Drain and Serve: Remove fried cheese balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix in chopped herbs like parsley or jalapeños into the cheese mixture before forming balls.
- You can prepare cheese balls ahead of time by freezing them after coating; fry directly from frozen.
- Try different dipping sauces like marinara, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli to complement the crispy cheese balls.
