Fried Cheese Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fried Cheese Balls are the ultimate indulgence for cheese lovers. These crispy, golden treats have a light, airy texture on the outside with a gooey, melted cheddar cheese center that oozes with every bite. Perfect for appetizers, party snacks, or a fun treat, these cheese balls are incredibly easy to make and only take a few minutes to fry. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a cheesy, crispy delight that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 2 large egg whites, at room temperature

• 5 ounces medium cheddar cheese, grated (about 1¼ cups)

• Vegetable oil for deep frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Using a stand mixer or electric mixer, beat the room temperature egg whites until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should be white and hold their shape.

2. Gently fold the grated cheddar cheese into the stiff egg whites until well combined, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

3. Use a 1½ tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the mixture into small mounds on a baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the mixture.

4. While the cheese balls chill, heat at least 4 inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F throughout cooking.

5. Gently roll each chilled mound into a loose ball shape. Don’t pack them tightly to preserve the light, airy texture.

6. Carefully drop several cheese balls into the hot oil, making sure they don’t touch each other. Fry for 1-1½ minutes, turning constantly until golden brown.

7. Remove the fried cheese balls with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 15 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 1 minute

• Total Time: 16 minutes

Storage/Reheating

These fried cheese balls are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses. Just make sure the cheese melts well for that gooey center.

2. Can I bake these cheese balls instead of frying them?

These cheese balls are best fried to maintain their crispy texture. However, you can try baking them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, though they may not be as crispy as when fried.

3. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while frying?

Make sure to gently roll the cheese balls and not pack them too tightly. Chilling the balls before frying also helps the cheese stay contained during cooking.

4. Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball mixture and refrigerate the scooped mounds in advance. When you’re ready to fry, just chill them for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

5. Can I use egg yolks instead of egg whites?

Using egg whites is essential for achieving the light and airy texture of these cheese balls. If you use egg yolks, the mixture will be denser and may not result in the same crispy texture.

6. Can I freeze these cheese balls?

Yes, you can freeze the un-fried cheese balls. After chilling them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra seconds to the cooking time.

7. How do I ensure the oil is at the correct temperature?

Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the cheese balls will burn before the inside melts, and if it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil.

8. Can I make these cheese balls without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer or even whisk the egg whites by hand, but using a mixer will help you achieve stiff peaks more easily.

9. Can I make these cheese balls spicier?

To make them spicier, you can mix in some diced jalapeños, chili powder, or cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture before chilling.

10. How do I make the cheese balls crispy without them being greasy?

Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature and don’t overcrowd the cheese balls in the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary, and drain them on paper towels immediately after frying to absorb any excess oil.

Conclusion

Fried Cheese Balls are a deliciously crispy and cheesy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their light, airy texture on the outside and gooey melted cheese on the inside, these little bites are the ultimate comfort food. Easy to make and quick to cook, they’re sure to become a favorite snack or appetizer in your kitchen. Enjoy them while they’re hot and gooey for the best experience!