If you’re looking for a delightful snack that’s crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these Cheese Balls are perfect for you! They’re easy to make, incredibly tasty, and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or party food, these cheese balls will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 2 large eggs
- Bread crumbs for coating
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
Start by grating 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Place the grated cheeses in a large mixing bowl. The combination of these cheeses gives the balls a deliciously cheesy flavor and a gooey center when fried.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Mix these dry ingredients well. The cornstarch helps to make the cheese balls extra crispy, while the baking powder ensures they puff up nicely during frying.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry mixture to the bowl of grated cheeses. Crack two large eggs into the bowl and mix everything together until a dough forms. The eggs act as a binding agent, holding the cheese and dry ingredients together. You may need to use your hands to mix thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4: Shape the Cheese Balls
Once the dough is ready, start shaping it into small balls, about the size of a walnut. Roll the mixture between your palms to form smooth, even balls. This recipe should yield about 20-25 cheese balls, depending on the size you make them.
Step 5: Coat with Bread Crumbs
In a shallow dish, pour some bread crumbs. Roll each cheese ball in the bread crumbs, ensuring they are completely coated. The bread crumbs provide a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese interior.
Step 6: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You need enough oil to submerge the cheese balls completely, ensuring they cook evenly.
Step 7: Fry the Cheese Balls
Carefully drop a few cheese balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the cheese balls hot, as they are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer. You can serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli. These cheese balls are perfect for parties, game nights, or as a delightful snack any time of the day.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Balls
- Keep the Oil Temperature Steady: Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) ensures the cheese balls cook evenly and become crispy without absorbing too much oil.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives the cheese balls a superior texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Freeze Before Frying: If you want to make the cheese balls in advance, shape and coat them, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag. Fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Jalapeno Cheese Balls: Add finely chopped jalapenos to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Cheese Balls: Mix in some crispy, crumbled bacon for a savory twist.
- Herb Cheese Balls: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or oregano to the mixture for added flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake the cheese balls instead of frying them? A: Yes, you can bake the cheese balls. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Q: How do I store leftover cheese balls? A: Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to retain their crispiness.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
These crispy and delicious Cheese Balls are a must-try recipe for any cheese lover. They are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a tasty snack, these cheese balls are sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior with every bite. Happy cooking!
