Cheese poppers are delicious bite-sized snacks that feature a crispy outer coating and a gooey, cheesy center. They are perfect as appetizers or party treats and are loved by both kids and adults alike. Here’s the recipe:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Ready in: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs or panko crumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to evenly distribute the cheeses.
- Take a small portion of the cheese mixture and roll it between your palms to form small, bite-sized balls. Repeat this process until you have used up all the cheese mixture.
- In three separate shallow bowls, place the all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, and bread crumbs (or panko crumbs) mixed with Italian seasoning (if using).
- Dip each cheese ball into the flour, making sure it is coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured cheese ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Roll the cheese ball in the bread crumbs or panko crumbs until it is completely covered with a crispy coating.
- Repeat the coating process for all the cheese balls and place them on a plate or tray.
- In a deep frying pan or pot, heat enough oil to deep fry the cheese poppers over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place a few cheese poppers into the hot oil and fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy. This should take about 1-2 minutes per batch.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried cheese poppers from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Sprinkle the cheese poppers with a pinch of salt and pepper while they are still hot.
Serve the cheese poppers immediately while they are hot and the cheese is gooey and melty. You can enjoy them as they are or with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a cheesy dip. These cheese poppers are a crowd-pleasing snack that is sure to disappear quickly at any gathering or party!
