Description
These Crispy Fried Cheese Balls are a deliciously crunchy and cheesy appetizer perfect for any occasion. Made with a blend of grated cheese, flavorful spices, and coated in crispy bread crumbs, they’re fried to golden perfection for a taste that’s better than takeout.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Ball Mixture
- 4 cups grated cheese or vegan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili flakes
Coating
- 1 cup bread crumbs
For Frying
- 6-8 cups vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside to place the cheese balls after coating.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine grated cheese, eggs, flour, and all spices. Use a hand mixer until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Form balls: Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into small, uniform balls.
- Coat with bread crumbs: Evenly coat each cheese ball in bread crumbs and place them on the prepared parchment-lined tray.
- Chill: Refrigerate the coated cheese balls for 30–45 minutes to help them firm up for frying.
- Prepare draining tray: Line another tray with paper towels to drain excess oil from the fried cheese balls.
- Heat oil: In a deep pot, heat 6–8 cups of vegetable oil to 350–355°F, using a thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
- Fry cheese balls: Fry 4–5 cheese balls at a time until golden brown, approximately 30 seconds per side, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried cheese balls from the oil and place them on the paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot, ideally with marinara sauce and fresh basil for an extra flavor boost.
Notes
- Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for even frying and avoid greasy cheese balls.
- Refrigerating the cheese balls before frying helps them hold their shape and prevents melting too quickly.
- You can use any type of cheese or vegan cheese depending on your preference.
- Serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for enhanced flavor.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the fryer to maintain oil temperature and ensure crispy results.
