Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls

If you’re looking for a savory and indulgent snack or appetizer that will impress your guests, look no further than Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls. These crispy, golden balls are packed with juicy ground beef and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese, making them the ultimate comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, or just a delicious weeknight meal. Fried to perfection and bursting with flavor, these cheesy ground beef balls are sure to be a hit wherever they are served.

This recipe combines the hearty flavor of ground beef with the richness of melted cheese, creating a satisfying bite that’s crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these fried cheesy balls are versatile and easy to make. Plus, they’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them an excellent choice for busy evenings or last-minute entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Cheesy Goodness – The combination of cheddar cheese and ground beef creates a rich, savory flavor that’s irresistible.
2. Quick and Easy – With only 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy these cheesy beef balls in no time.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re sure to please everyone.
4. Crispy Exterior – Frying the meatballs gives them a golden, crispy crust that perfectly complements the tender, cheesy interior.
5. Customizable – Feel free to adjust the seasonings, cheese, or even add herbs and spices to make them your own.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Salt and pepper
• Oil for frying

Variations

• Different Cheese – Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Add Spices – Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, or chili flakes to add an extra layer of flavor.
• Stuffed Beef Balls – For an extra cheesy surprise, stuff the beef balls with cubes of cheese before frying.
• Baking Option – For a healthier version, bake the cheesy beef balls in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Take small portions of the beef mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Continue until all the mixture is used.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Beef Balls

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the beef balls into the pan. Fry them in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the outside is golden brown and the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 5: Drain the Oil

Once cooked, transfer the cheesy beef balls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls hot and enjoy! They can be served with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch dressing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry the beef balls in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the balls to cook unevenly.
• Test for Doneness – To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, you can cut one open to check if the center is no longer pink.
• Use Fresh Breadcrumbs – If possible, use fresh breadcrumbs for the best texture in the meatballs.
• Shape Evenly – Make sure to shape the meatballs evenly so they cook at the same rate.

How to Serve

These Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls can be served as an appetizer or snack with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or marinara. For a main dish, pair them with a side of mashed potatoes, salad, or a steamed vegetable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or by briefly frying them again to re-crisp the exterior.

Freezing

You can freeze these meatballs before frying. Once they’re shaped into balls, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, simply fry them from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Reheating

To reheat the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a frying pan with a little oil to crisp them up.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses would work great in this recipe.

3. Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, freeze the meatballs before frying. Once frozen, you can fry them straight from the freezer.

4. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well combined and the breadcrumbs help hold the meatballs together. If needed, add a bit more breadcrumbs or an extra egg.

5. Can I use lean ground beef?

Yes, but keep in mind that lean beef may result in a drier texture. You might want to add a bit more cheese or breadcrumbs for moisture.

6. Can I add herbs or spices to the mixture?

Yes, you can customize the flavor by adding garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, or chili flakes to suit your taste.

7. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but fresh shredded cheese tends to melt better and creates a creamier texture.

8. What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.

9. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted, but the flavor and texture will differ. Ground turkey is leaner, so the meatballs might be drier.

10. Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even rolled oats as an alternative to breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Fried Cheesy Ground Beef Balls are a simple yet irresistible treat that combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the gooeyness of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or even as part of a meal, they are sure to satisfy any craving. With a crispy exterior and cheesy, tender interior, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that you can easily customize to your liking. Whether served with a dipping sauce or on their own, they make for a comforting and delicious dish that everyone will enjoy.

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