Air fryer cheese balls

Air fryer cheese balls are a crispy, cheesy snack made with cheddar, parmesan, and cottage cheese. They're quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying.

12 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup cheddar cheese
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup lowfat cottage cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tsp spice mix
2 eggs
1 short spray cooking spray oil

Air fryer cheese balls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that combines the robust flavors of cheddar, parmesan, and cottage cheese. These cheesy delights are crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, making them a hit at any gathering or a perfect indulgence for a cozy night in. With the air fryer, you can achieve a golden, crispy texture without the need for deep frying, which makes this recipe a healthier choice.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and low-fat cottage cheese. Mix well until evenly distributed.

2. Add Dry Ingredients:
- Add the all-purpose white wheat flour and the spice mix to the cheese mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until all ingredients are well combined. The mixture should form a thick, cohesive dough.

3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until consistent.

4. Forming the Cheese Balls:
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll between your palms to form balls roughly the size of a ping-pong ball (about 1 inch in diameter). Repeat until all the mixture is used.

5. Coat the Cheese Balls:
- Dip each cheese ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess egg.

6. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

7. Spray the Air Fryer Basket:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

8. Air Fry the Cheese Balls:
- Place the coated cheese balls in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they are evenly spaced and not touching each other.
- Lightly spray the top of the cheese balls with cooking spray.

9. Cook:
- Air fry the cheese balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to shake the basket or flip the cheese balls halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

10. Cool and Serve:
- Let the cheese balls cool slightly before serving. They will firm up a bit as they cool.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch, if desired.

With just a few ingredients and an air fryer, you can create mouthwatering cheese balls that are sure to please any crowd. The combination of cheddar, parmesan, and cottage cheese provides a rich and savory flavor that is irresistible. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving a cheesy snack, these air fryer triple-cheese balls are a quick and satisfying option.

Air fryer cheese balls FAQ:

What is the best cooking time for air fryer cheese balls?

Air fry the cheese balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Check for a golden brown and crispy exterior, and shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.

How can I tell when the cheese balls are done?

The cheese balls are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature; they should be hot throughout.

Can I freeze cheese balls before cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the formed cheese balls before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I substitute for lowfat cottage cheese?

You can substitute lowfat cottage cheese with ricotta cheese or cream cheese for a creamier texture, though this may alter the flavor slightly.

Is there a gluten-free option for the flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can replace all-purpose white wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make the recipe gluten-free.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure the cheese balls are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

- Preheat your air fryer to achieve a crispier texture.

- You can experiment with different spice mixes to customize the flavor.

- If the mixture is too wet to form balls, add a bit more flour until it reaches the desired consistency.

- Serve the cheese balls hot for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 10g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 0.31g
Sugar 0.44g
Fat 8g

Air fryer cheese balls