Golden Cheese Balls (Print version)

Crispy Golden Cheese Balls with a gooey mozzarella and cheddar center, finished with parmesan, parsley, and marinara for dipping.

# Ingredients:

For the cheese balls

01 - 2 cups (225 g) shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
02 - 1 cup (115 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1/4 cup (25 g) finely grated parmesan cheese
04 - 3 tablespoons cornstarch
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
08 - 1 large egg, lightly beaten

For breading and frying

09 - 1/3 cup (40 g) all-purpose flour
10 - 2 large eggs, beaten
11 - 1 1/2 cups (90 g) panko breadcrumbs
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, optional
13 - 3 cups neutral oil, or enough for 1 inch in the pan

For serving

14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
15 - 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
16 - 1 cup (240 ml) warm marinara sauce

# Instructions:

01 - Combine mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and 1 beaten egg in a bowl. Stir until the cheese is evenly coated and slightly tacky.
02 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The mixture should feel firm enough to scoop and press together.
03 - Scoop tablespoon-size portions and roll into tight 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
04 - Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in a second, and panko mixed with smoked paprika in a third. Coat each ball in flour, dip in egg, press into panko, then repeat the egg and panko coating.
05 - Refrigerate the breaded cheese balls for 20 minutes, or freeze for 10 minutes if the kitchen is warm. This helps prevent leaking.
06 - Heat 1 inch of oil in a heavy pan to 350°F. Fry 4-5 balls at a time for 2-3 minutes, turning gently, until evenly golden and crisp.
07 - Transfer to a rack or paper towels. Sprinkle with parsley and parmesan, then serve hot with warm marinara sauce.

# Good to know:

01 - Makes about 18 small cheese balls.
02 - Include 50 minutes of chilling time before frying.
03 - Best served hot, within 10 minutes of cooking.

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