Crispy, Gooey Air-Fried Cheeseballs - Happy National Cheeseball Day! Look no further than these tantalizingly crispy air-fried cheeseballs! Bursting with gooey cheese and coated in a golden, crunchy crust, these little balls of delight are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or solo snacking session. Plus, with the magic of the air fryer, you can indulge guilt-free, knowing you're not sacrificing flavor for healthiness. So, gather your ingredients and let's embark on a cheesy adventure!
Ingredients:
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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1 egg, beaten
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Cheeseballs: Take about a tablespoon of the cheese mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, yielding approximately 12 cheeseballs.
- Coat the Cheeseballs: Prepare three shallow bowls. Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten egg in another, and the panko breadcrumbs in the third. Roll each cheeseball first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Air-Fry the Cheeseballs: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated cheeseballs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cook in batches if necessary. Air-fry the cheeseballs for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and the cheese is melted and gooey on the inside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the cheeseballs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Transfer them to a serving platter and serve hot with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips for Success:
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Don't overcrowd the air fryer: To ensure that the cheeseballs cook evenly and achieve maximum crispiness, make sure they are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with some space between each one.
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Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for cheeseballs, feel free to get creative and mix in other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
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Customize the seasonings: Don't be afraid to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or swap out the dried oregano for Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
What to Eat with Crispy, Gooey Air-Fried Cheeseballs:
These air-fried cheeseballs are delicious on their own, but they also pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces and accompaniments. Serve them alongside marinara sauce for a classic Italian-inspired dip, or opt for tangy ranch dressing for a cool contrast. For a more indulgent experience, try dipping them in creamy garlic aioli or spicy sriracha mayo. You can also turn them into a complete meal by serving them with a side salad or roasted vegetables for added freshness and nutrition.
So, there you have it—your ticket to Crispy, Gooey Air-Fried Cheeseballs ! With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible cheeseballs that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you're hosting a party, craving a midnight snack, or just looking to treat yourself, these crispy cheeseballs are sure to satisfy your cheesy cravings. Enjoy! 🧀✨
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