Name: Fried Cheese Balls (Easy Mozzarella Balls) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 8-ounce container ciliegene fresh mozzarella balls (roughly 24 balls); ½ cup flour; 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¾ cup panko bread crumbs; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon basil; 2 eggs; 1 tablespoon water (to beat with eggs); 1 to 1 ½ quarts vegetable oil (for deep frying); Grated parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped; Marinara sauce, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving a crispy, cheesy snack that melts in your mouth and bursts with flavor, you have to try this Fried Cheese Balls (Easy Mozzarella Balls) Recipe. These bite-sized delights are essentially mozzarella sticks reinvented in perfect little rounds, making them even easier to enjoy at any gathering or as a quick treat. Using fresh mozzarella balls coated in a golden, herby crust, each one offers a delightful crunch followed by a gooey, cheesy center that’s absolutely irresistible. Get ready to fall in love with this fun and simple appetizer that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Three gray bowls are arranged on a white marbled surface with a white cloth nearby. The top gray bowl contains fine white flour with a small whisk resting on it, showing a rough powdery texture. The middle gray bowl holds light beige breadcrumbs with a coarse, crumbly texture evenly spread. The bottom gray bowl is filled with beaten yellow eggs mixed with some bubbles and a silver fork inside, showing a smooth and liquid texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these irresistible fried cheese balls. Each ingredient is straightforward and plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. From fresh mozzarella to the crunchy panko coating spiced just right, here’s what you’ll need:

1 8-ounce container ciliegene fresh mozzarella balls: These small mozzarella spheres are the star, providing creamy, melty cheese in every bite.
½ cup flour: Helps the coating stick to the cheese balls, ensuring a crispy outer layer.
1 ½ tsp kosher salt, divided: Enhances all the flavors, split between seasoning the flour and the breading.
¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the richness of the cheese.
¾ cup panko bread crumbs: Gives a light, crunchy, and airy texture to the crust, perfect for frying.
½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses the crust with a warm, savory aroma that complements the cheese.
½ tsp oregano: Brings in an herbaceous note reminiscent of classic Italian flavors.
½ tsp basil: Adds earthy sweetness to the breadcrumb mix, enhancing the overall profile.
2 eggs: Acts as the binding agent that holds the breading in place while adding moisture for a perfect crust.
1 to 1 ½ quarts vegetable oil: For deep frying; choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point to ensure crispiness without overwhelming flavors.
Parmesan, grated: A finishing touch to sprinkle over the hot balls, adding an extra burst of flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped: For a pop of color and fresh herbaceous aroma.
Marinara sauce: A classic dip that complements the mozzarella balls beautifully with its tangy tomato brightness.

How to Make Fried Cheese Balls (Easy Mozzarella Balls) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Balls

Start by draining your fresh mozzarella balls from their container and gently drying them with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure the breading sticks properly and the oil doesn’t splatter during frying because of excess moisture. Set those perfectly dried cheese balls aside to get ready for their crispy makeover.

Step 2: Mix the Coatings

In this step, you will create three bowls: one with flour seasoned with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper; the second with panko bread crumbs combined with the remaining salt, garlic powder, oregano, and basil; and the third with beaten eggs mixed with a tablespoon of water. These mixtures will give your cheese balls that irresistible golden-brown crust full of flavor and crunch.

Step 3: Coat the Mozzarella Balls

Here’s where the magic really happens. One by one, dip each mozzarella ball into the egg bowl, then roll it in the flour, back into the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly in the herbed panko breadcrumbs. For the best results, use a fork to handle the egg dipping and your hand for flour and breadcrumbs to ensure even, gentle coverage. Lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet ready for their chill time.

Step 4: Freeze Before Frying

Pop the coated mozzarella balls into the freezer for 30 minutes. This step is essential to keep the cheese from leaking out during frying and helps the crust firm up for an ideal crunch. While they freeze, line a second baking sheet with paper towels to drain the fried balls later.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat your vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven to 350°F, using a thermometer for accuracy. Once at temperature, carefully lower the frozen balls in batches into the hot oil, stirring gently to brown them evenly. Fry until they’re a perfect golden brown, then transfer them with a slotted spoon to the paper towel-lined sheet to drain. Keep the oil temperature steady between batches for consistent results.

How to Serve Fried Cheese Balls (Easy Mozzarella Balls) Recipe

A white round plate is filled with many small, golden-brown, crispy fried balls, sprinkled with white cheese and small green parsley bits on top. On the left side of the plate, there is a small glass bowl filled with smooth red marinara sauce. Above the plate, a round white bowl with a wooden rim holds a white crumbly cheese, with a silver spoon resting inside. The plate and bowl are placed on a white marbled surface, with fresh green parsley leaves scattered at the bottom right corner of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley takes these fried treats to the next level, adding depth of flavor and a touch of fresh, herbaceous brightness. A pinch of flaky salt on top just before serving enhances the crispy coating and balances the sweet, melted mozzarella inside.

Side Dishes

Marinara sauce is the classic and perfect companion for fried cheese balls, providing a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness. For a heartier option, pair them with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to round out your snack or appetizer experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by serving these Fried Cheese Balls (Easy Mozzarella Balls) Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of different dips such as spicy arrabbiata sauce, basil pesto, or a creamy garlic aioli. Garnish the board with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a festive, inviting vibe perfect for sharing at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best eaten within 2 days to enjoy that delicious crispy exterior and gooey cheese without losing texture or flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the coated mozzarella balls before frying by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and then transferring them to a freezer-safe container once frozen solid. This makes future frying quick and easy! They can last up to one month frozen for convenient snacking any time.

Reheating

To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make the crust soggy. Instead, pop the cheese balls in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes or until warmed through and crisped up again. This method brings back their crunchy exterior and melty center beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella balls?

While shredded mozzarella is handy, it won’t provide the same gooey, contained bite as fresh mozzarella balls. The balls stay intact during frying and give the signature melty center you want for this recipe.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs are key for that extra crispy texture, but if you’re out, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. Just note that the crust might be slightly denser and less airy.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while frying?

Freezing the coated balls for at least 30 minutes before frying is the best way to keep the cheese from oozing out. Also, make sure the oil temperature stays steady around 350°F for even cooking and a quick crust formation.

Can I bake the fried cheese balls instead of frying?

While baking is possible, frying achieves that unbeatable crispiness. Baking may result in a softer crust and less even browning. If you choose to bake, use a high oven temperature and place them on a wire rack to promote airflow.

What dips go well with Fried Cheese Balls (Easy Mozzarella Balls) Recipe?

Besides marinara, try ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or a fresh basil pesto for exciting flavor variations. These dips complement the cheesy richness perfectly and can mix up your appetizer game.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Fried Cheese Balls (Easy Mozzarella Balls) Recipe enough if you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a truly delightful snack. It’s simple enough to make on a whim but delicious enough to steal the show every time. Grab your frying pan, some fresh mozzarella, and get ready to enjoy these crispy, cheesy bites that bring pure joy with every crunch!