#Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls- A Spicy Delight for Your Snack Time
#Introduction
Brace yourselves for an exciting combination of spicy and cheesy in bite-sized goodness! Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls – crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with a wonderful spicy kick – are the perfect appetizers for your game nights, dinner parties, or any social gatherings. If you like to spice up your snack game, this recipe is for you!
#Why Make This Recipe
This recipe brings forward an interesting fusion of the all-time favourite jalapeño poppers and cheese balls. It is perfect for people who love spicy yet creamy and crunchy snacks. It is a quick, easy, and guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making you shine as the star chef at your next get-together!
#How to Make Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
#Preparation Time
Servings: 18 balls
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Fry Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
#Ingredients
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
#Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese and cheddar cheese until smooth.
2. Add the jalapeño, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Chill these balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let them firm up.
5. Meanwhile, set up three separate bowls – one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with Panko breadcrumbs.
6. Once chilled, roll each ball first in flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the Panko breadcrumbs.
7. In a deep pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and fry the cheese balls in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. This will take about 2-3 minutes per batch.
8. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese balls onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
#How to Serve Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
These incredible Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls are best enjoyed warm, served with your favorite dipping sauce on the side. A cool ranch or creamy avocado dip can balance out the spice and add an extra dimension to your snacking experience!
#How to Store Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
If you happen to have leftover cheese balls, cool them completely then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until they get warmed through and crispy again.
#Tips to Make Jalapeño Popper Cheese Balls
1. Use gloves while chopping jalapeños to avoid burning sensation on your skin.
2. Make sure to chill your cheese balls before frying. This helps them hold their shape.
3. Be careful while frying; never overcrowd the pan.
#Variation
If you want to add a meaty texture in cheese balls, add some finely chopped cooked bacon into the cheese mixture.
#FAQs
1. Can this recipe be baked instead of fried?
Yes! Bake the cheese balls at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking tray for approximately 15 minutes or until crispy and golden.
2. Can we use other cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or monterey jack.
3. Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cheese mixture and shape it into balls, then keep them covered in the refrigerator for a day before you need to serve them. Just remember to coat and fry on the day of serving.