Crispy Cheese Jalapeno Balls are the perfect snack or appetizer for cheese lovers who enjoy a little heat. These golden, crunchy bites are filled with gooey, melted cheese and spicy jalapenos, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a game-day snack, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of creamy cheese and spicy jalapeno
- Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside
- Simple ingredients that come together quickly
- Great for parties, game nights, or as a fun snack
- Can be made ahead and frozen for later
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cream cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Jalapenos
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Directions
- Finely chop the jalapenos and mix them with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a lined tray. Freeze for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Roll each cheese ball in flour, then dip in egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 20 cheese balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique flavor.
- Baking Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Extra Heat: Add cayenne pepper or use spicier peppers like serranos.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQs
How spicy are these cheese balls?
The spice level depends on the jalapenos. Removing the seeds and membranes makes them milder.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and freeze them before frying for easy cooking later.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Ranch, chipotle mayo, or a simple garlic aioli pair well.
Can I use canned jalapenos?
Yes, but fresh jalapenos provide better texture and flavor.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Do they work in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Can I add meat to the mixture?
Yes, crumbled bacon or cooked sausage adds extra flavor.
How do I prevent them from falling apart?
Freezing before frying helps them stay intact.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch.
Can I make them smaller or larger?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheese Jalapeno Balls are a delicious combination of crunchy, cheesy, and spicy flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, these tasty bites are sure to be a crowd favorite. Enjoy them fresh with your favorite dipping sauce and share with friends and family!
PrintCrispy Cheese Jalapeno Balls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying (or Baking/Air Frying)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Cheese Jalapeño Balls are the ultimate cheesy, spicy, and crunchy snack! Filled with gooey melted cheese and bits of jalapeño, then coated in a crispy golden crust, they’re perfect for parties, game nights, or as a quick appetizer. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
- Mix the filling – In a bowl, combine cheddar cheese, mozzarella, jalapeños, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the balls – Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 20-30 minutes until firm.
- Prepare the coating – Set up three bowls:
- One with flour.
- One with beaten eggs.
- One with panko breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika and onion powder.
- Coat the balls – Roll each cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
- Fry until golden – Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the cheese balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve – Let them cool slightly and serve warm with ranch, spicy mayo, or marinara sauce!
Notes
- You can bake these at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes for a healthier option.
- Try adding bacon bits for extra flavor!
- For extra crunch, use double breadcrumbs by repeating the egg and panko coating.
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