Crispy Cheese Jalapeno Balls Recipe
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.
- 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
Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/crispy-cheese-jalapeno-balls-recipe/
