These crispy, golden Baked Cheese Balls are packed with gooey mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan for a flavorful, melty bite in every ball. Lightly coated in breadcrumbs and oven-baked to perfection, they make the ideal appetizer or party snack—served hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Crispy Outside, Gooey Inside: The perfect cheesy bite with a satisfying crunch.
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Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by picky eaters and adults alike.
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No Frying Needed: Baked, not fried, for a healthier, less messy option.
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Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or switch up the cheese to suit your tastes.
Ingredients Breakdown
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds gooey, stretchy texture.
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Brings bold, tangy flavor.
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty depth.
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½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) – Provides the crispy coating.
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1 tsp garlic powder – Infuses savory aroma and flavor.
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½ tsp paprika – Adds mild heat and color.
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½ tsp black pepper – Gives subtle spice.
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1 large egg, beaten – Binds the mixture together.
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2 tbsp flour – Helps thicken the cheese mixture for forming.
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2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing) – Promotes browning and crispiness during baking.
Tips and Tricks:
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Use Cold Cheese: Helps the balls keep their shape while baking.
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Make Ahead: Prep and refrigerate the uncooked balls up to 1 day in advance.
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Extra Crunch: Double coat in breadcrumbs for a thicker crust.
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Even Browning: Rotate the baking tray halfway through baking.
Variations and Customizations:
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Add Herbs: Mix in chopped parsley, basil, or chives for extra flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
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Cheese Swap: Use gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss for a unique twist.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Serve With:
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Marinara sauce
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Ranch dressing
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Spicy aioli or garlic dip
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Great With:
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Sparkling water
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Light beer
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Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze unbaked cheese balls for up to 1 month.
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To Reheat: Bake at 375°F for 5–7 minutes or until hot and crispy.
Popular Questions:
Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Deep-fry at 350°F until golden, or pan-fry in oil for 2–3 minutes per side.
Can I make these with just one cheese?
Absolutely—mozzarella or cheddar alone works, though combining cheeses gives the best flavor and texture.
Do I need to chill them before baking?
Chilling helps prevent spreading, especially with softer cheeses, so it’s highly recommended.