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Crispy Fried Goat Cheese Balls with Air Fryer Option

A pile of crispy, golden brown fried goat cheese balls on a white plate, one is broken open showing the creamy interior.
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Make these easy goat cheese appetizer bites for your next party. They are crispy outside, creamy inside, and you can fry them or use an air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces soft goat cheese, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for air fryer)
  • Optional: Honey or spicy honey for dipping

Instructions

  1. Combine the room temperature goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
  2. Roll the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get about 16 to 20 balls. Place them on a parchment-lined plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step is important for easy coating.
  3. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish. Whisk the egg in the second dish. Mix the panko breadcrumbs and fresh parsley in the third dish.
  4. Working with one chilled cheese ball at a time, lightly dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, roll it thoroughly in the panko mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres completely.
  5. For Frying: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower 4-5 cheese balls into the hot oil. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  6. For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the breaded cheese balls with cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and heated through.
  7. Serve the warm, creamy cheese bites immediately with a drizzle of honey or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a festive look, you can roll half of the chilled cheese balls in finely chopped pecans or dried cranberries instead of the panko coating.
  • If you plan to make these ahead, freeze the coated balls on the tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry or air fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
  • Use high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor in these gourmet cheese bites.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/easy-goat-cheese-balls-recipe/