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Herbed Cheese Balls with Marinara Sauce Recipe

Herbed Cheese Balls with Marinara Sauce Recipe

Herbed cheese balls are a delightful appetizer that brings together creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, and a crispy outer layer, all served in a rich marinara sauce. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where delicious finger food is a must. With easy-to-follow steps, you can impress your guests with this simple yet elegant dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These herbed cheese balls are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The combination of creamy cheese and aromatic herbs creates a delicious contrast with the tangy marinara sauce. They are sure to be a hit at any event!

  • Quick to prepare, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
  • Versatile and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.
  • Perfectly paired with marinara sauce for dipping.
  • Great for both adults and kids, making them a family-friendly option.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Olive oil for frying

How to Make Herbed Cheese Balls with Marinara Sauce

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. In another dish, beat the egg.
  4. Dip each cheese ball first into the beaten egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Set aside on a baking sheet.
  5. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the cheese balls in batches, frying until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  6. While the cheese balls are frying, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
  7. Serve the herbed cheese balls hot, alongside the marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and shaping.
  • You can refrigerate the shaped cheese balls for about 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
  • Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be around 350°F for optimal frying.
  • Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for unique flavors.

Easy Variations

  • Replace the parmesan with mozzarella for a gooey center.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Incorporate finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

What to Serve With It

  • A fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
  • Garlic bread for a hearty side.
  • Crudité platter for a colorful addition.
  • A selection of olives for a Mediterranean touch.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Herbed Cheese Balls with Marinara Sauce
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. In another dish, beat the egg.
  4. Dip each cheese ball first into the beaten egg, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Set aside on a baking sheet.
  5. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the cheese balls in batches, frying until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  6. While the cheese balls are frying, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
  7. Serve the herbed cheese balls hot, alongside the marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing. You can refrigerate the shaped cheese balls for about 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.

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