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)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
Optional:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 eggs, beaten
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying (about 2–3 cups)
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce
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.
Bread the Cheese Cubes
- 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.
Chill the Cheese Balls
- 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.
Fry the Cheese Balls
- 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.
Serve and Enjoy
- 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.