French Fried Cheese
Crispy, cheesy bites with a golden crust, perfect for snack lovers or entertaining guests, offering a delightful blend of rich cheese and crunchy coating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the cheese into 1/2-inch cubes. If using soft cheese, use as much of the crust as possible.
- Dip each cheese cube into beaten eggs, then roll in dry bread crumbs. Repeat to ensure a thick coating.
- Heat salad oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the breaded cheese cubes in hot oil for about 30 seconds until golden brown.
- Remove from oil and cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider using panko bread crumbs instead of fine dry bread crumbs. If you want to add flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or paprika into the breading mixture. You can also try different types of cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, but ensure they can withstand frying without melting completely. Make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent the cheese from absorbing too much oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious French fried cheese cubes as an appetizer with a side of marinara sauce or a zesty dipping sauce. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Strawberry Rhubarb Pecan Salad, to balance the richness. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover French fried cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Fried Cheese contains roughly 1021 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1025mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda. Just ensure they are suitable for frying, as some cheeses melt more quickly than others. It's best to avoid very soft cheeses that may not hold their shape during frying.
What can I use instead of salad oil?
You can substitute salad oil with other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil. If you prefer a bit more flavor, light olive oil can also work well. Just make sure the oil has a high smoke point for frying.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while frying?
To minimize leakage, ensure the cheese cubes are well-coated with egg and bread crumbs. You can also chill the breaded cheese in the freezer for about 15 minutes before frying, as this helps the coating adhere better and keeps the cheese intact during cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).