Air Fryer Cheese Balls

Why Make This Recipe

Let’s be real: cheese makes everything better. Air Fryer Cheese Balls take that cheesy goodness and make it crispy and delicious without the guilt of deep frying. Who wouldn’t want that? These little bites are perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or even just a solo snack binge when no one’s looking. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, even if you’re not a kitchen wizard.

How to Make Air Fryer Cheese Balls

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Making Air Fryer Cheese Balls is as simple as mixing, shaping, and cooking. Seriously, if you have about 20 minutes and a bit of cheese on hand, you’re golden! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have the ultimate cheesy snack in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheese and cream cheese until well mixed.
2. Add breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir until everything’s combined nicely.
3. Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Get those hands dirty! 💪
4. Dip each ball in beaten egg and then coat with additional breadcrumbs.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) because nobody likes a cold cheese ball.
6. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the cheese balls in a single layer. No cheese ball squatters, please!
7. Give the tops of the cheese balls a spritz with more cooking spray to ensure that crispy finish.
8. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn a delicious golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Go ahead, dive in!

How to Serve Air Fryer Cheese Balls

Serve these beauties while they’re hot for a true cheesy experience. Pair them with a tangy marinara, creamy ranch, or even a zesty guacamole if you’re feeling extra fancy. 🥑 Who says cheese balls can’t be gourmet? Make a big batch, and watch them disappear faster than you can say "cheese!"

How to Store Air Fryer Cheese Balls

Got leftovers? If there’s any left (which is a big "if"), you can store these in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to get that crispy texture back. Just be careful; they’ll still be cheesy inside, and nobody wants to bite into molten lava.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Cheese Balls

• Experiment with cheese: Mix it up! Try adding other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat.
• Spice it up: Throw in some chopped jalapeños or Italian herbs for extra flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give those cheese balls some space to breathe so they can cook evenly.
• Use a fork when dipping: Reduce the mess by using a fork to dip and coat your cheese balls.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Why not try stuffing your cheese balls with a little surprise! Add in some cooked bacon bits or even a little piece of pepperoni right in the center. Cheese + surprise = mind-blowing snack.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match. Just remember that moisture content affects consistency, so balance is key!

Can I freeze these cheese balls?
You bet! Freeze them before cooking, then pop them directly into the air fryer from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best dipping sauce?
It really depends on your vibe! Classic marinara or a spicy ranch are always crowd-pleasers. But hey, if you love BBQ sauce, go for it! ✨

Now, roll up your sleeves, get that cheese, and let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Air Fryer Cheese Balls

Delicious crispy cheese balls made in the air fryer, perfect as a snack or for gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients

  

Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) Choose your favorite cheese.
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened Allows for smoother mixing.

Breading and Seasoning

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs For coating.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• to taste Salt and pepper

Binding Agent

• 1 large egg Beaten for coating.

Cooking

• as needed Cooking spray To prevent sticking.

Instructions

 

Mixing Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheese and cream cheese until well mixed.
• Add breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir until everything’s combined nicely.

Forming Cheese Balls

• Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
• Dip each ball in beaten egg and then coat with additional breadcrumbs.

Cooking

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the cheese balls in a single layer.
• Give the tops of the cheese balls a spritz with more cooking spray.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown and crispy.

Serving

• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or guacamole.

Notes

For best results, experiment with different types of cheese and spices. Don't overcrowd the air fryer to ensure even cooking. Use a fork for dipping to reduce mess.

Keyword Air Fryer Cheese Balls, Cheese Snacks, Crispy Cheese Balls, Easy Snack, party food