Garlic Cheese Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Cheese Balls are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. They combine the irresistible flavors of garlic, herbs, and melted cheese in a bite-sized treat that’s sure to impress. Whether served with a tangy marinara dip or enjoyed on their own, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mozzarella cheese (grated or cubed)
• All-purpose flour
• Bread crumbs
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano or mixed Italian herbs
• Red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Milk or water (for binding)
• Oil (for frying)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine grated mozzarella, minced garlic, herbs, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a sticky dough.
2. Add a small amount of flour and milk to help bind the mixture together.
3. Shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
4. Roll each ball in flour, then dip in milk or water, and coat with bread crumbs for an even crust.
5. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, gently drop the balls into the oil.
6. Fry until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally for even cooking.
7. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
8. Serve hot with ketchup, marinara sauce, or a creamy dip.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people and makes roughly 12–15 cheese balls.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Cheese Balls: Add finely chopped green chilies or extra chili flakes for a fiery kick.
• Herbed Version: Mix in chopped parsley, basil, or thyme for a fresh herbal flavor.
• Stuffed Cheese Balls: Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each ball for an extra gooey surprise.
• Baked Option: For a healthier twist, bake the cheese balls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover garlic cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place them in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

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

Make sure the balls are well coated with bread crumbs and the oil is at the right temperature before frying.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both work great for this recipe.

Can I bake the cheese balls instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, shape and coat the balls in advance, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.

What dip goes best with garlic cheese balls?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, garlic mayo, or spicy ketchup.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour alternatives like rice flour or cornstarch.

Why are my cheese balls breaking in oil?

The oil might be too hot or the coating too thin. Ensure even coating and moderate oil temperature.

How can I make them extra crispy?

Double coat them with bread crumbs for a thicker, crunchier crust.

Can I air fry garlic cheese balls?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Garlic Cheese Balls are an easy and irresistible snack that delivers the perfect blend of crunch and gooey goodness. Whether fried or baked, they’re a fantastic choice for parties, game nights, or simply when you crave something cheesy and flavorful. Serve them hot and watch them disappear within minutes.

Garlic Cheese Balls

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Golden, crispy Garlic Cheese Balls with a gooey, cheesy garlic-herb center — perfect as an appetizer or snack for parties and gatherings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Yield: 12–15 cheese balls (serves 4)
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Fusion, Indian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (grated or cubed)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for coating)
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or mixed Italian herbs
• 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2–3 tbsp milk or water (for binding)
• Oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine grated mozzarella, minced garlic, herbs, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Add a little flour and milk to bind the mixture into a sticky dough.
3. Shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls.
4. Roll each ball in flour, dip in milk or water, then coat with bread crumbs evenly.
5. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until hot.
6. Fry the cheese balls until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally for even cooking.
7. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8. Serve hot with ketchup, marinara sauce, or garlic mayo.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, double coat the cheese balls with bread crumbs.
• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes for a healthier version.
• To reheat, use an air fryer or oven instead of a microwave to retain crispiness.
• Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour for a gluten-free option.
• Make ahead and refrigerate shaped balls for up to 24 hours before frying.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 cheese balls
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 25mg