Corned beef and cheese balls are fun little bites that pack a punch of flavor. With creamy cheese mixed in, they’re perfect as a snack or party treat!
I love how easy they are to whip up, and they always disappear quickly. Pair them with a tasty dip, and you’ll have everyone coming back for more! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: The star of the show! Use leftover corned beef or canned if you’re in a hurry. For a vegetarian option, try replacing it with finely chopped mushrooms or smoked tofu.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can swap it for Gouda or Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder taste.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese helps bind everything nicely. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ricotta cheese works well, too!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture will be different.
Green Onions: They add a fresh touch. You can substitute with chives or even finely chopped shallots for a different flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Balls Stay Together When Frying?
Keeping your cheese balls intact during frying is crucial to avoid a messy kitchen! Here are some tips:
- Make sure your mixture is well blended; this helps with binding.
- Chill the formed balls for at least 30 minutes before frying to firm them up. If they feel too soft, they might fall apart.
- Fry in small batches. Too many at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking.
- Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for the best results; use a thermometer if you have one!
How to Make Corned Beef and Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
For Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Serving:
- Crackers or bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 15 minutes to fry. You’ll need to plan for around 35 minutes total before you can enjoy these tasty treats! Perfect for snacks or parties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped corned beef, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together really well until it’s all combined into a smooth mixture.
2. Shape the Balls:
Once your cheese mixture is ready, take a part of the mixture and shape it into one large cheese ball for serving. Then, take the remaining mixture and form it into smaller balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure they are nicely packed together!
3. Prepare for Breading:
Set up a breading station! Grab three separate bowls: one for flour, another for beaten eggs, and the third for panko breadcrumbs. This will make breading the cheese balls super easy!
4. Bread the Balls:
Take each small cheese ball and roll it first in the flour, making sure it is coated evenly. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s well covered. Place the coated balls on a plate, ready for frying!
5. Fry the Cheese Balls:
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is ready, carefully fry the cheese balls in batches. Turn them occasionally to ensure they get golden brown and crispy on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
6. Drain the Fried Balls:
After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls and place them on paper towels. This will help absorb any extra oil, keeping them crispy and delicious!
7. Serve & Garnish:
Grab a serving plate and place the large cheese ball in the center. Arrange the fried cheese balls around it, and sprinkle some extra chopped green onions or chives on top for a fresh look. How inviting!
8. Enjoy Your Creation:
Serve the corn beef and cheese balls immediately with your favorite crackers or sliced bread for a tasty spread. Dip, enjoy, and share the love of this delicious appetizer!
Can I Use Leftover Corned Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef works perfectly and adds great flavor. Just make sure to finely chop it to ensure even mixing and shaping.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheese Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Freeze These Cheese Balls?
Yes, you can freeze the formed, un-fried cheese balls! Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until they’re solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch. However, the final texture won’t be quite as crispy. You could also crush some crackers or use crushed cornflakes for a similar effect!
