Corned beef and cheese balls are a fun and tasty snack! These little bites combine salty corned beef and creamy cheese, making them super delicious. They’re perfect for sharing at parties!
Making them is a breeze! Just mix everything together, roll them into balls, and bake until golden. Trust me, you’ll be the star of the party when these cheesy treats come out! 🧀🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Corned Beef: This is the star ingredient, giving lots of flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter twist.
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its great melting quality. Other good options are cheddar or pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and binds everything together. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cream cheese. It will still give a nice consistency.
Onions: Finely chopped onions add a nice flavor. You can skip them if you’re not a fan, or use shallots for a milder taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a wonderful crunch, but you could use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have. Just know that panko tends to make them crispier!
How Do I Form the Perfect Cheese Balls Without Messing Them Up?
Forming the cheese balls can be a little tricky, but it’s all about how you handle the mixture. Ensure everything is well mixed before shaping. Here’s how to do it simply:
- Using clean hands, take a scoop of the mixture and roll it into a tight ball, about the size of a golf ball.
- Make sure to pack it well; this prevents them from breaking apart during frying.
- Chilling them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes not only helps them set but also makes frying easier.
How to Make Corned Beef And Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mixture:
- 1 cup canned corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any melting cheese)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives or green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or mixed herbs
For Coating and Frying:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 large eggs, beaten (for coating)
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Oil for deep frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Then you’ll spend about 15 minutes frying them, making it a total of around 1 hour. Perfect for a quick and delicious appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and finely chopped corned beef. Mix everything together well until it’s smooth and fully blended.
2. Add Seasonings:
Next, stir in the chopped onions (if you’re using them), garlic powder, black pepper, chopped chives, and dried parsley. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Form the Cheese Balls:
Using clean hands, take a scoop of the mixture and roll it into golf-ball-sized balls. Make sure to pack them tightly so they hold together when frying.
4. Set Up Your Dredging Stations:
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour for dredging, the second with beaten eggs for coating, and the third with panko breadcrumbs for the final crunch. This will help you coat the cheese balls nicely.
5. Coat the Cheese Balls:
Take each cheese ball and roll it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumbs. This three-step process gives a lovely crispy texture!
6. Chill the Balls:
After coating, place the cheese balls on a tray and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help them set and be easier to fry.
7. Fry the Cheese Balls:
While they chill, heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Once hot, carefully drop in the balls in batches. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot!
8. Drain and Serve:
Once nicely browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish the cheese balls with additional chopped chives. These are best served hot with dipping sauces like ranch or garlic mayo. Enjoy your delicious corned beef and cheese balls!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for melting, you can use other melting cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack if you prefer a different flavor. Just ensure the cheese is shred-able and melts well!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again!
Can I Freeze the Cheese Balls Before Frying?
Yes, you can freeze them! After forming and coating the cheese balls, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to fry, there’s no need to thaw; just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
