Description
These Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls are a deliciously crispy appetizer perfect for parties and snacks. Made with seasoned ground beef mixed with melted cheddar cheese, onions, and spices, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Breading Station
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 large eggs, beaten (for coating)
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (for coating)
For Frying and Garnish
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, one large egg, and 1/2 cup breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the Balls: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place each ball on a tray and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up which helps maintain their shape during frying.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour for dredging, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs for coating. This will ensure a crispy and even breading on each beef ball.
- Bread the Beef Balls: Roll each chilled beef ball first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a tray before frying.
- Heat the Oil: Pour 2–3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or fryer and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Balls: Carefully add the breaded beef balls to the hot oil in batches to avoid crowding. Fry each batch for 3–4 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through inside. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the fried cheesy ground beef balls warm, optionally garnished with chopped parsley. They pair well with ranch, spicy ketchup, or marinara dipping sauces.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- For a healthier alternative, bake the meatballs at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through instead of frying.
- Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent at 350°F to avoid greasy meatballs.
- These meatballs freeze well — freeze after shaping and before breading, then bread and fry or bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
