Crispy Fried Cheese Balls with Mozzarella Center
	
		Golden and crispy on the outside with a melty mozzarella center, these fried cheese balls are a crave-worthy appetizer or snack. Perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you want something indulgent and cheesy.
	 
	
		
							- Author: Djihane
 
							- Prep Time: 20 minutes
 
							- Cook Time: 10 minutes
 
							- Total Time: 30 minutes
 
							- Yield: 18–20 cheese balls 1x
 
							- Category: Appetizer, Snack
 
							- Method: Frying
 
							- Cuisine: American
 
							- Diet: Vegetarian
 
					
	 
	
		
		
			
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella (or small mozzarella cubes)
 
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
 
- 2 large eggs, beaten
 
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
 
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
 
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
 
- Salt and pepper to taste
 
- Oil for deep frying
 
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
 
		 
	 
	
		
		
			
- Scoop shredded mozzarella into 1-inch balls or use small mozzarella cubes. Freeze for 15–20 minutes to firm.
 
- Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
 
- Roll each cheese ball in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat in seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
 
- Return coated cheese balls to the freezer for another 10 minutes while heating oil.
 
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry cheese balls in batches for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
 
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
 
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Best enjoyed immediately!
 
		 
	 
	
		Notes
		
			
- Use low-moisture mozzarella for better shaping and less splatter.
 
- Double breading ensures extra crunch and helps prevent leaking cheese.
 
- Can be prepped ahead and frozen before frying for easy entertaining.
 
- Serve with marinara, ranch, or spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
 
		 
	 
	
		Nutrition
		
							- Serving Size: 3 cheese balls
 
							- Calories: 230
 
							- Sugar: 1g
 
							- Sodium: 300mg
 
							- Fat: 14g
 
							- Saturated Fat: 6g
 
							- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
 
							- Trans Fat: 0g
 
							- Carbohydrates: 14g
 
							- Fiber: 1g
 
							- Protein: 10g
 
							- Cholesterol: 55mg
 
					
	 
	
		Keywords: fried cheese balls, mozzarella bites, party snack, crispy appetizer, gooey cheese balls