These Golden Cheese Balls are crispy, melty, and utterly addictive bites of cheesy goodness. With a gooey mozzarella center, a flavorful breadcrumb coating, and an optional kick of spice, they’re perfect for parties, snacks, or game-day appetizers. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dip for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Golden Cheese Balls
Ingredients
- For the Cheese:
- 8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes (or string cheese pieces)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying (about 2–3 cups)
- Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce
For the Coating:
Optional:
For the Egg Wash:
For Frying:
For Serving:
Instructions
- Prep the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and any optional seasonings (Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper). Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Place the beaten eggs in a separate shallow bowl.
- Take one piece of mozzarella cheese and coat it in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Roll the cheese in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Ensure the cheese is evenly coated.
- Place the breaded cheese ball on a plate or tray. Repeat with the remaining cheese cubes.
- Place the breaded cheese balls in the freezer for 15–20 minutes . Chilling helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying, ensuring a perfectly gooey center and crispy exterior.
- Heat about 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) . Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Carefully add a few cheese balls to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1–2 minutes , or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat with the remaining cheese balls, allowing the oil to return to temperature between batches.
- Arrange the Golden Cheese Balls on a serving platter and serve immediately while warm.
- Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Bread the Cheese Cubes
Chill the Cheese Balls
Fry the Cheese Balls
Serve and Enjoy