Description
These Fried Goat Cheese Balls are irresistibly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them the perfect bite-sized appetizer or salad topper. Lightly seasoned and coated in crunchy panko, they’re elegant, indulgent, and easy to make ahead for any occasion.
Ingredients
8 oz Goat Cheese (plain or herbed)
2 oz Cream Cheese (optional, for smoother texture)
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
1 large Egg, beaten
Salt and Pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme or Parsley (optional)
Oil for Frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix goat cheese and cream cheese (if using) until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or garlic powder.
- Form and Chill: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm.
- Bread the Cheese Balls: Set up three bowls — flour, beaten egg, and panko mixed with herbs and seasoning. Roll each cheese ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat with panko. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and panko coating. Freeze for another 10 minutes to set.
- Fry: Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry cheese balls in batches for 1–2 minutes, turning until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with honey, balsamic glaze, fig jam, or pepper jelly.
Notes
Freezing before frying keeps the cheese from melting too quickly.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes for a lighter version.
Mix chopped nuts or herbs into the panko for extra flavor and crunch.
Uncooked, breaded cheese balls can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to keep them crisp—avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cheese balls
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
