If you are craving a comfort food snack that combines savory, cheesy goodness with a crispy, golden crust, look no further than this Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe. These bite-sized delights boast a juicy center bursting with shredded cheddar cheese, seasoned ground beef, and just the right amount of spices, all wrapped in a crunchy breadcrumb shell. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a satisfying snack, these meatballs are sure to become a beloved favorite. The best part? They’re incredibly fun to make and even better to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe requires simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a vital role: the ground beef provides hearty flavor, the cheddar cheese melts into gooey pockets, and the spices create a perfectly balanced taste. The combination of eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs ensures a crispy outer layer that locks in all the juiciness.
- 1 pound ground beef: The meaty base for these flavorful balls, lean but juicy.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds melty, cheesy goodness inside each bite.
- ¼ cup finely diced onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory notes with a robust kick.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings an umami boost and mild tanginess.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and complexity.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: For a smoky, slightly earthy undertone.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating): Helps bind and crunch up the exterior.
- 1 large egg: Binds the mixture to hold the beef balls firmly.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: For dredging and creating a crispy crust.
- 2 large eggs, beaten (for dredging): Helps breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: For achieving that golden, crunchy exterior.
How to Make Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by combining the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, half a cup of breadcrumbs, and one egg in a large bowl. Mix everything gently until all ingredients are just combined—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. This mixture is the heart of your Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe, bringing together bold flavors and gooey cheese that melts perfectly in every bite.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs, about the size of large walnut halves. Placing them on a lined tray, chill the meatballs in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes. This step firms up the mixture so the meatballs hold their shape better during frying, giving you that beautiful, crispy outside without falling apart.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
Create a three-bowl station: one filled with the all-purpose flour, another with the beaten eggs, and a third with the extra breadcrumbs. This classic breading method ensures each Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Ball has a triple coating, resulting in an irresistibly crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts with the tender, cheesy inside.
Step 4: Bread the Meatballs
Roll each chilled meatball first in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Don’t rush this process—thorough coating is the secret to getting that perfect golden crust during frying.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown
Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the meatballs in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Turn them occasionally to cook them evenly, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch, until they develop a deep golden-brown color and are cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
How to Serve Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Top off your Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light dusting of grated Parmesan can also complement the cheesy center beautifully.
Side Dishes
These crispy, cheesy meatballs pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. For a more indulgent pairing, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw to balance the flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, skewer a few Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe onto wooden toothpicks alongside cherry tomatoes and olives for a party platter. Alternatively, serve them atop garlic butter pasta or alongside a spicy marinara dipping sauce for an Italian flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their crispiness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze these meatballs either raw or cooked. To freeze raw, shape and bread as directed, then lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Cooked meatballs can be frozen in airtight containers, perfect for easy reheating and quick meals.
Reheating
To reheat and preserve that crunch, pop your Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it will make the crust soggy and the cheese inside might not melt evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe?
Absolutely! While shredded cheddar cheese works wonderfully for its flavor and meltiness, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a gooey center or pepper jack for some heat.
Is it possible to bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Place the breaded meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Frying for about 3 to 4 minutes at 350°F is usually sufficient. You can check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) or by cutting open one meatball to see that it’s no longer pink inside.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Many gluten-free breadcrumbs will work well without compromising the crispy exterior.
What dipping sauces complement the Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe?
Ranch dressing, ketchup, and spicy mayo are classic pairings. You can also try BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy garlic aioli to change things up.
Final Thoughts
This Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together amazing flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a cozy snack, these crispy, cheesy meatballs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this recipe a whirl—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy ground beef!
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Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 20–30 minutes chilling time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 beef balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls are a deliciously crispy appetizer featuring juicy ground beef mixed with melted cheddar cheese and flavorful seasonings. Coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection, they make a perfect party snack or game day treat with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
Breading Station
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Breadcrumbs (extra, for coating)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (enough for 2–3 inches deep frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, ½ cup breadcrumbs, and 1 egg. Mix everything gently until well combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs and Chill: Shape the mixture into 1½-inch balls and place them on a lined tray. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to help the meatballs firm up and hold their shape during frying.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with extra breadcrumbs. This will be used to coat the chilled meatballs for a crispy crust.
- Bread the Meatballs: Roll each chilled meatball first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. This triple coating ensures a crunchy golden exterior after frying.
- Heat the Oil: Pour 2–3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature for even frying.
- Fry the Meatballs: Carefully fry the meatballs in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through inside.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried meatballs with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
Notes
- You can prepare these meatballs ahead of time and freeze them raw or cooked for convenient future snacks.
- For extra cheesy centers, stuff each ball with a small cube of mozzarella before forming and frying.
- For a lighter alternative, bake the breaded meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until golden and cooked through instead of frying.
