Introduction

Crispy Cheese Jalapeno Balls are a perfect spicy snack that combines creamy cheese with the heat of fresh jalapenos. These bite-sized treats are golden, crunchy on the outside, and delightfully cheesy inside—ideal for parties or a tasty appetizer.

The image shows a close-up of golden-brown, crispy rice balls arranged in two rows on a black wire rack. Each rice ball is round with a crunchy texture on the outside, featuring small green bits of chopped herbs scattered on top and within the surface. The rice grains are clearly visible, tightly packed but not smooth, with some areas darker from the crisp frying. The background is softly blurred, emphasizing the warm, crispy appearance and fresh herb garnish of the rice balls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup fresh jalapenos (about 3-4 peppers)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Wash jalapenos, slice in half lengthwise, and remove seeds if you prefer less heat.
Step 3: In a bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the jalapeno pieces evenly.
Step 4: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls using your hands.
Step 5: Prepare three bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each ball first in flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally roll in breadcrumbs to coat thoroughly.
Step 6: Fry the balls in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Remove the jalapeno seeds for a milder flavor, or leave them in for extra heat.
Try mixing in a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the cheese blend for added depth.
Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy taste and texture.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover jalapeno balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows several round, golden-brown fried balls with a crispy texture on the outside, scattered with small green bits of chopped herbs, all placed on a black wire rack. Each ball has a rough, crunchy surface, with some parts browned more than others, adding a crispy look. The balls are arranged closely together, and the focus is mainly on the ones in the front, while those in the back become blurred. The white marbled surface is faintly visible around the edges beneath the rack. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the jalapeno balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the balls and coat them, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Just let them come to room temperature before frying for best results.

What can I serve these jalapeno balls with?

They pair well with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce like chipotle mayo for a flavorful contrast.

Crispy Cheese Jalapeno Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 129 reviews

These Crispy Cheese Jalapeno Balls are a perfect spicy and cheesy appetizer featuring sharp cheddar and cream cheese mixed with fresh jalapenos, coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb crust and deep-fried to golden perfection. They offer a delightful contrast of creamy, spicy filling with a crunchy exterior, ideal for parties or a flavorful snack.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12–15 balls 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese and Jalapeno Mixture

1 cup fresh jalapenos (about 3–4 peppers)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese

Coating and Frying

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions

Heat the Oil: Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it is hot enough to properly fry the balls and achieve a crispy exterior.
Prepare Jalapenos: Wash the jalapenos thoroughly, then slice each pepper in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds to reduce spiciness if desired, or keep seeds for extra heat.
Mix Cheese and Jalapenos: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Fold in the chopped jalapenos evenly throughout the mixture.
Form Balls: Using your hands, roll the cheese and jalapeno mixture into golf ball-sized balls, ensuring they are compact and hold together well.
Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three separate bowls: one with the all-purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt if desired, one with the beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs for coating.
Coat the Balls: Dredge each cheese ball first in the flour, coating all sides, then dip into the beaten eggs to cover thoroughly, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs to form an even, thick crust.
Fry the Balls: Carefully place the coated balls into the hot oil in batches so the oil temperature stays consistent. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Drain and Serve: Remove the fried jalapeno balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

To reduce heat, remove all the jalapeno seeds and membranes before mixing.
Ensure the oil temperature remains around 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked balls.
Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest coating.
These can be made ahead, refrigerated, and fried just before serving for convenience.

Keywords: crispy jalapeno balls, cheese jalapeno appetizers, fried cheese balls, spicy snack, appetizer recipe