Description
Golden, crispy fried cheese curds coated in a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and salt. These bite-sized snacks are perfectly fried to a golden brown, oozing warm cheese with every bite. Ideal as a delicious appetizer or comfort snack.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 egg
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 – 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
Main Ingredient
- 1 cup cheese curds
Other
- Oil for frying (about 1/2 inch depth)
Instructions
- Prepare Coating Stations: Set up three separate bowls to create an assembly line for coating the cheese curds. Place the flour in one bowl. In a second bowl, whisk together the whole milk and egg until fully combined. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the salt and granulated garlic for seasoning.
- Coat the Cheese Curds: Working with a few cheese curds at a time, dip each piece first into the milk and egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it again into the milk and egg mixture, and finally press it firmly into the panko breadcrumb mixture to create a thorough, crispy coating. Continue until all cheese curds are fully coated.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 1/2 inch of oil into a skillet and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the oil temperature is key to cooking the curds evenly and ensuring a crispy exterior.
- Fry the Cheese Curds: Fry the breaded cheese curds in batches, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even browning. Fry them just until golden brown, usually about 1-2 minutes per batch. It’s normal if some melted cheese leaks out during frying.
- Drain and Season: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried curds from the oil and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Lightly sprinkle with additional salt while still hot.
- Serve Hot: Serve the cheese curds immediately while they’re warm and gooey for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy cheese curds.
- Frying in batches avoids overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy curds.
- You can experiment with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture for varied flavors.
- Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or marinara for added flavor.
- Use fresh cheese curds for optimal melt and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
