Description
Crispy on the outside and bursting with cheesy, savory goodness inside, these Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls make a perfect appetizer or party snack. Combining ground beef with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, herbs, and spices, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, they are irresistibly flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Coating Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 eggs, beaten (for coating)
- Extra breadcrumbs (for coating)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Form the balls and chill: Scoop out about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls with your hands. Arrange the balls on a tray and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes to firm up, which helps them hold their shape during frying.
- Set up the coating stations: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with additional breadcrumbs for coating.
- Coat the beef balls: Take each chilled beef ball and roll it first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs. This triple coating creates a crispy and golden crust.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan to a depth suitable for frying and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Fry the beef balls: Fry the coated balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning and cooking until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and serve: Remove the cooked beef balls with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, spicy mayo, or marinara.
Notes
- For an extra cheesy surprise, insert a small cube of cheese in the center of each ball before shaping.
- These beef balls freeze well before frying; simply thaw and then fry when ready to serve.
- Delicious served with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or marinara for added flavor.
