These Stuffed Cheese Balls are a delicious and versatile appetizer perfect for any gathering. With a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients for an extra burst of flavor.
📋 Ingredients:
For the Cheese Balls:
- 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 🌶️ 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños (optional)
- 🧂 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 🧂 1/4 tsp salt
- 🧂 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 🍞 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 🥚 2 large eggs, beaten
- 🍞 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 🌿 1 tsp dried oregano
For Frying:
- 🛢️ Vegetable oil, for frying
📝 Directions:
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, finely chopped jalapeños (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Coat the Balls: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumbs mixed with dried oregano. Roll each cheese ball in the flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated balls back on the baking sheet.
- Chill: Refrigerate the coated cheese balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Fry the Cheese Balls: In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the cheese balls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed cheese balls warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.
🍽 Serve:
Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Cheese Balls!
⏱ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱ Chilling Time: 30 minutes
⏱ Cooking Time: 10 minutes
⏱ Total Time: 1 hour
🍽 Servings: 24 cheese balls
🔥 Calories: 80 kcal per cheese ball
💡 Notes:
- You can add other ingredients to the cheese mixture, such as cooked bacon bits, finely chopped bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes, for additional flavors.
- These cheese balls can be baked instead of fried. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Enjoy your delightful Stuffed Cheese Balls! 🧀✨🟡