Crispy Deep-Fried Cheese Balls
These crispy deep-fried cheese balls feature a golden crunchy exterior with a gooey melted cheese center, perfect as a quick party snack or indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) mozzarella cheese, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups (200 g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable or canola oil for deep-frying (about 4 cups / 1 liter)
Instructions
- Cut the mozzarella into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes and freeze for 15-20 minutes.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each frozen cheese cube in flour, shake off excess, dip into egg, then roll in breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more for a double coating.
- Place coated cheese balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C), enough to cover the cheese balls.
- Fry cheese balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy, flipping if needed.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Notes
Freeze cheese cubes before coating to prevent leaking. Double breadcrumb coating ensures a sturdy, crispy shell. Maintain oil temperature between 340°F and 360°F for best results. Avoid overcrowding the fryer. Serve immediately for best gooey texture. Oven-bake option available at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4-5 cheese bal
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0.5
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 6
Keywords: deep-fried cheese balls, crispy cheese balls, mozzarella cheese balls, party snacks, gooey cheese snack, easy cheese balls