Description
Golden, crispy cheese bites with a crunchy panko exterior and a gooey melted cheese center. Perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
Instructions
- Scoop small spoonfuls (about 1 tablespoon) of shredded cheese and form into tight balls.
- Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
- In one bowl, place flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third bowl, place panko breadcrumbs.
- Roll each cheese ball first in flour, then dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg and panko step once more.
- Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry bites in batches until golden and crispy (about 2-3 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bites on a greased baking sheet, spray tops lightly with cooking spray. Bake 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Notes
Freeze the cheese balls well to prevent melting during cooking.
You can add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (frying) or 12 minutes (baking)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
