crispy fried cheese balls

This crispy fried cheese balls recipe transforms simple ingredients into irresistible golden spheres with molten centers. Perfect for parties or game day snacking, these little bites of joy always disappear within minutes of hitting the table.

I first made these cheese balls for a last minute neighborhood potluck and they were such a hit that I had to write down the recipe on napkins for five different people. Now they're requested at practically every gathering I host.

Ingredients

• Shredded mozzarella cheese: creates that perfect stretchy pull when bitten into
• Cream cheese: provides creaminess and helps bind everything together
• Garlic powder: adds savory depth without overwhelming the cheese flavor
• Onion powder: complements the garlic with subtle sweetness
• All purpose flour: helps the egg wash adhere to the cheese balls
• Eggs: create the essential binding layer for the breadcrumbs to stick
• Panko breadcrumbs: deliver superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil: with a high smoke point ensures proper frying temperature

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the cheese mixture:

Combine all cheeses and seasonings in a large bowl until completely incorporated. The softened cream cheese should be at room temperature for easier mixing. This is where you can fold in optional ingredients like jalapeños or bacon bits for extra flavor.

Form and chill the balls:

Scoop approximately one tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to form balls about 2.5 cm in diameter. The mixture will be sticky but workable. Place formed balls on a parchment lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes until firm enough to handle for breading.

Set up your breading station:

Arrange three shallow dishes in sequence with flour first, beaten eggs second, and breadcrumbs third. This assembly line approach makes the breading process efficient and less messy. Make sure your egg is well beaten for consistent coating.

Bread the cheese balls:

Take each frozen cheese ball and first coat it completely in flour, tapping off excess. Next, dip in egg wash ensuring total coverage. Finally, roll in breadcrumbs pressing gently to adhere. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating that seals in the cheese.

Fry to golden perfection:

Heat oil to exactly 175°C using a thermometer for accuracy. Fry in small batches of 4 to 5 balls at a time, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon until they reach a deep golden brown color. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes total. Monitor the oil temperature between batches.

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The garlic powder is truly the secret ingredient that elevates these cheese balls from good to extraordinary. My grandmother always said that garlic powder works better than fresh garlic in this recipe because it distributes more evenly throughout the cheese mixture and won't burn during frying.

Make Ahead Options

These cheese balls can be prepared up to the breading stage and frozen solid on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag where they'll keep for up to three months. When ready to serve, simply fry them straight from frozen, adding about 30 seconds to the cooking time. This makes them perfect for unexpected guests or planned gatherings alike.

Dipping Sauce Pairings

While these cheese balls are delicious on their own, the right dipping sauce can take them to new heights. Classic marinara offers a tangy contrast to the rich cheese, while ranch dressing provides a cooling effect. For something more adventurous, try a sriracha mayo or honey mustard. I personally serve them with a quick homemade aioli made from mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cheese balls are exploding during frying, your oil is likely too hot or your breading may have cracks. Double check your temperature with a thermometer and ensure complete breading coverage. Another common issue is cheese balls that come out greasy. This typically happens when the oil isn't hot enough, causing the breading to absorb oil instead of creating a crisp barrier.

Common Queries

→ How do I keep the cheese balls from falling apart during frying?

Freezing the shaped cheese balls before breading helps them hold together during frying. Also, ensure a thorough breadcrumb coating for extra stability.

→ What type of cheese works best for the filling?

A blend of mozzarella and cream cheese creates a gooey, stretchy center. Cheddar can be added for more flavor depth.

→ Can I prepare the cheese balls in advance?

Yes, shape and bread the cheese balls ahead of time, then freeze. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute if needed.

→ How do I achieve an extra-crispy coating?

Double-coat the cheese balls by repeating the egg and breadcrumb step for a thicker, crunchier exterior.

→ Which dipping sauces pair well?

Popular options include marinara, ranch, spicy mayo, and garlic aioli to complement the creamy cheese filling.

→ Is oven baking possible instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake at 220°C until golden, but frying delivers the crispest results.