Recipe

Crispy Cheese Balls

Updated on 3 min read
image 2022 07 09T04 14 45 258Z Recipe

Quick Description

Crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy inside — these bite-sized cheese balls are the ultimate comfort snack. Lightly spiced with herbs and coated with golden breadcrumbs, they’re quick to make and completely addictive!

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 16–18 cheese balls
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: ~25 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Mixture

  • 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornflour)
  • 1 tbsp bread crumbs (for binding)
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh coriander or parsley, chopped
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (or minced garlic)
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to spice level)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

For Coating

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup water (to make a slurry)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (for coating; panko or regular)

For Frying

  • Oil, for deep frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, combine boiled mashed potatoes, shredded mozzarella, flour, bread crumbs, green chili, coriander, garlic powder, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
    • Mix well until a smooth, non-sticky dough forms.
  2. Shape the Balls:
    • Scoop a small amount of mixture and roll it into a ball (about 1-inch diameter).
    • Repeat with the rest of the mixture. You should get around 16–18 balls.
  3. Coat the Cheese Balls:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together flour and water to form a thin slurry.
    • Dip each ball into the slurry, then roll in bread crumbs until fully coated.
    • For extra crispiness, repeat the coating process once more (double coat).
  4. Chill (Important Step):
    • Place coated balls in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This helps them hold shape during frying.
  5. Deep Fry:
    • Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C).
    • Gently drop in 4–5 cheese balls at a time and fry until golden brown, turning occasionally.
    • Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve hot with ketchup, spicy mayo, ranch, or your favorite dip. Watch the cheese pull!

Additional Notes

  • Avoid high heat: If oil is too hot, the outside browns too quickly while the inside stays cold.
  • Baking/Air Fryer Option:
    • Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or air fry for 10–12 minutes, spraying lightly with oil.
  • Freeze for Later: Freeze coated uncooked balls on a tray for 1 hour, then transfer to a bag — fry directly from frozen.

Dietary Info

  • Vegetarian
  • High in Calcium & Protein (from cheese)
  • Can be Gluten-Free: Use rice flour and gluten-free bread crumbs.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of potato + breadcrumbs.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Cheese: Mozzarella gives a stretchy texture, while cheddar adds more flavor. Combine both for the best result.
  • Potatoes: Can be replaced with boiled sweet potato or mashed cauliflower for a lighter version.
  • Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a crispier texture. For keto, use crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Balls: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes for a fiery version.
  • Italian Style: Add oregano, basil, and serve with marinara sauce.
  • Stuffed Cheese Balls: Hide a small cube of cheese inside each ball for an extra melty center.
  • Party Platter Idea: Serve with dips like garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or sweet chili sauce.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store fried cheese balls for up to 2 days, reheat in the oven or air fryer.
  • Freeze (Unfried): Up to 1 month — fry or bake straight from frozen.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 3 balls)

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Carbs: 17 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Calcium: 120 mg

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