Description
These Crispy Fried Cheese Balls are a delicious snack that’s perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside with a gooey, cheesy center. Easy to make at home, they offer a tastier and fresher alternative to takeout cheese balls, flavored with garlic, onion, oregano, smoked paprika, and chili flakes for a savory kick.
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
Frying
- 6-8 cups vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set it aside to place the coated cheese balls later.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine grated cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Use a hand mixer to blend everything thoroughly until fully incorporated.
- Form Balls: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture and roll it between your hands to form small cheese balls.
- Coat with Bread Crumbs: Roll each cheese ball evenly in bread crumbs to coat thoroughly, then place them on the prepared tray.
- Chill: Refrigerate the coated cheese balls for 30–45 minutes to firm up and help them hold shape during frying.
- Prepare Oil for Frying: Line another tray with paper towels to drain excess oil after frying. Heat 6 to 8 cups of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350–355°F, checking the temperature with a thermometer.
- Fry Cheese Balls: Fry 4 to 5 cheese balls at a time, cooking each side for about 30 seconds until the outside is golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried cheese balls from oil and place them on the paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil. Serve them immediately with marinara sauce and fresh basil for a savory dipping experience.
Notes
- Make sure the oil temperature is maintained between 350–355°F for perfect crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the pot while frying to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Vegan and regular cheese options can be used interchangeably depending on dietary preference.
