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Easy 3-Ingredient Fried Cheese Balls


  • Author: Jennie Graham
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 20-24 cheese balls 1x

Description

Transform just three simple ingredients into crispy golden cheese balls with melty centers. This foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality appetizers in under 20 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded Gouda cheese (8 ounces)
  • 1 egg or 2 egg whites
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cracker crumbs for dredging (optional)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Your favorite sauce for dipping

Instructions

  1. Mix the cheese, egg, and cornstarch in a large bowl using an electric mixer or by hand until a soft dough forms. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
  2. Scoop 2 teaspoons of dough and roll into balls between your palms. Roll in cracker crumbs if desired. Place on a lined tray.
  3. Refrigerate cheese balls for 30 minutes until thoroughly chilled. This prevents them from falling apart during frying.
  4. Heat oil to 350°F in a medium frying pan. Fry cheese balls until golden brown, about 30-60 seconds per side, turning once.
  5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce while hot and melty.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and binding properties
  • Keep the oil temperature steady at 350°F to ensure even cooking without burning
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan – fry in small batches for best results
  • Test one cheese ball first to check oil temperature and timing before frying the rest
  • Double the recipe and freeze unfried balls for quick appetizers anytime
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 cheese balls
  • Calories: 145
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: cheese ball appetizers, crispy cheese bites, gouda cheese balls, easy party snacks, melted cheese recipes, quick fried appetizers, three ingredient recipes