Okay, picture this: How do I I’m staring into the fridge wondering what magical thing happened. It’s a Friday night, the family is starving. What can I do to silence rumbling bellies? Is Fried Cheese better than mozzarella sticks? What’s the perfect crispy exterior giving way to a gooey center of cheese? My grandma used to make this on special occasions, and now, it’s my go-to comfort food. Is this so easy?
What is fried cheese?
Fried cheese, at its heart, is simply that: fried. Cheese battered and fried to golden brown perfection. What is more than the sum of its parts? I always use Monterey Jack, but you can get creative with it. What is the best way to make a crispy, gooey masterpiece? Different cultures have their own versions of halloumi in Cyprus or paneer pakora in India. What is my family’s take on it, honed over generations. The crust is the star of this dish. Is it crispy, crunchy and holds the melted cheese perfectly.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Why do you love fried cheese? First off, the flavor is just out of this world. What are some of the best cheeses in the world? What I love most about this is how unbelievably easy it is to make. What is minimal effort for maximum reward? Plus, the ingredients are super budget-friendly. What are some things you already have in your kitchen? Cheese, flour, eggs – these are all things that you should have! It’s incredibly versatile, too. I’ve served it as an appetizer, side dish, even a main course on those nights when I just can’t be there. I can’t cook anything else. I think that it is even easier than a grilled cheese because you dont have to worry about buttering. What is the best way to burn bread? If you’re a fan of things like jalapeno poppers or even just good old grilled cheese, then get yours today! What is your new favorite movie? What are some other recipes for fried pickles and zucchini fries? What is the best one, though – trust me!
How do I make fried cheese?
Quick Overview
How do you make fried cheese? How do I make a quick batter, dunk the cheese, and fry it? It until golden brown and bubbly. How do you keep cheeses warm without burning them? Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can nail this!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: I always use unbleached for a slightly nutty flavor. Can you substitute gluten-free flour for a GF option?
- What is the best baking powder for a batter?
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors.
- What is a teaspoon of black pepper?
- What is the best amount of whole milk to drink? I tried this with almond milk, and it made it even creamier!
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the batter together.
For the Filling:
- 1 pound Monterey Jack cheese: Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices or cubes. What are some good alternatives to mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack?
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil: For frying. You’ll need enough to come about an inch up the sides of your pot.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to reach around 350°F (175°C). If the cheese is too low, it will get greasy. Too high, and it’ll burn before it melts. I always do a test drop of batter to make sure it sizzles immediately. Have a plate lined with paper towels ready to drain the fried cheese.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. Is it safe to use baking powder or salt in your batter? I like to use a whisk for this to really get everything incorporated. Nobody likes lumps of flour!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth and homogenous. I sometimes warm the milk slightly (just a few seconds in the microwave) to help the egg incorporate. I read online that it helps with getting more air in the batter, and I noticed a difference!
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Do not overmix, a few lumps are fine. Overmixing will develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough batter. This step is crucial! Think pancake batter consistency.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
What is the best way to cut cheese into small cubes, about 1/2 inch thick? What is the best way to ensure even cooking. I like to pat the cheese dry with a paper towel to help the batter adhere better.
Step 6: Dredge & Fry
How do you dip cheese into the batter? Carefully place the battered cheese into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the cheese. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them; Can go from perfect to burnt pretty quickly!
Step 7: Drain & Serve
Remove the fried cheese from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on the prepared plate lined with parchment. With paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and gooey!
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
Fried cheese is so versatile. You can serve it in so many ways.
As an appetizer:Serve it with marinara sauce for dipping, kind of like mozzarella sticks. What are some good ways to make spicy aioli?
As a Snack:I love serving this to my kids as a snack – they go crazy for it. Is it better for them than potato chips?
With a Salad:Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for balanced meal.
On Sandwiches or Burgers: Add it to sandwiches or burgers for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. I always serve it with a roast beef sandwich and it elevates it so much.
Is there any limit to creativity? My family always makes a big deal about it when I make this. It’s tradition, and I love it.
How do you make a perfectly fried cheese?
What are some secrets to making fried cheese that will take your breath away? What is fried cheese?
Cheese Choice:What are some good alternatives to Monterey Jack? Cheddar will give you a sharper flavor, mozzarella will be extra gooey, and pepper jack will add some sweetness. Can you mix and match cheeses for a custom blend?
Batter ConsistencyThe batter should be thick enough to coat the cheese but not so thick that it’s gloppy. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk or flour. How do I get it right?
Oil Temperature:How do I maintain the right oil temperature? If the oil is too cold, the cheese will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If the oil is too hot, the batter will burn before the cheese melts. What is a candy thermometer? I once had a whole batch get ruined because I had the oil temperature wrong. It was so frustrating!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry the cheese in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy cheese. Give each piece enough space to fry evenly.
Serve Immediately: Fried cheese is best served immediately while hot and gooey. As it cools, the cheese will start to firm up.
Flavor Additions: Get creative with your batter! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, some garlic powder for savory flavor, or even some chopped herbs for a fresh twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, so fried cheese is definitely best fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing fried cheese at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. The cheese can spoil, and the batter will get soggy.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover fried cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze fried cheese. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Make sure to put it on a wire rack so that it doesnt get soggy from condensation. This is the most important tip.
Reheating: The best way to reheat fried cheese is in the oven or Air Fryer. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the batter soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s secret fried cheese recipe! It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. What makes it special? It’s the perfect combination of crispy and gooey, savory and satisfying. This is the best fried cheese you will ever have! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other appetizer recipes for more delicious ideas. Happy frying! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think! And don’t forget to rate the recipe!
Fried Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 2 eggs Eggs
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- 2 cups Vegetable oil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cut the cheese into 1-inch cubes.
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each cheese cube in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the cheese cubes in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried cheese from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately.
