Fried Cheese Curds Recipe
If you’ve only had fried cheese curds at the state fair or a restaurant, let me put you on game, you can make them right at home, and they’ll taste even better. Golden, crunchy on the outside, with that cheesy stretch we all fight over. I don’t mess with wet batters that slide off and make a greasy mess. My method keeps the curds light, crispy, and addictive. And trust me, I’ve tested this recipe enough times to know it always delivers that perfect crunch.
Servings 8 servings
Calories 722kcal
Ingredients
- 16 oz cheese curds
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs Beaten
- ¾ cups breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for spicy
- salt and pepper to taste
- cooking oil for frying I use canola oil; enough oil for 1-2 inches deep in the pan.
Instructions
- Pat your cheese curds dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick and keeps the oil from popping too much.
- In a plastic or paper bag, combine flour with smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne (optional), salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
- Dip the cheese curds into the egg wash, then toss it in the seasoned flour until fully coated.
- Allow the curds to rest for 10 minutes before frying. This ensures the breading adheres to them.
- Pour canola or vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot until it’s about 2 inches deep. Heat to 350 degrees. Use a thermometer.
- Fry in batches. Carefully drop a handful of curds into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan, that cools down the oil and makes them greasy. Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Don't over-fry them, you will lose all of your cheese.
- Use a slotted spoon to move the fried curds to a wire rack (not paper towels, which make them soggy). Serve hot with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
If you want to air fry them: Air fry at 350 degrees for 4-6 minutes until crispy. Check in on them! They will burst if you air fry them too long.
If your breading falls off: Usually it’s because the cheese curds weren’t dried well before dredging, or the oil wasn’t hot enough. Pat them dry, dip in egg, coat in flour or breadcrumbs, and make sure your oil is around 350°F.
Nutrition
Serving: 4oz | Calories: 722kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 47g