I love how simple and satisfying these cheese balls are. They are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and made with just a few basic ingredients. I started making them regularly because they fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle and still feel like a comfort snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it is incredibly easy and dependable. I can mix everything in one bowl, shape the balls in minutes, and have a warm snack ready fast. I also enjoy how versatile they are, since I can change the cheese or seasoning depending on what I have at home. Best of all, they are naturally zero-carb and require no breadcrumbs or flour.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cheese filling
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese
1 large egg
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt to taste
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix them until everything is fully combined and slightly sticky.
I scoop small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls using my hands.
I arrange the cheese balls on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
I bake them for about 10 to 12 minutes, until they are golden and slightly crisp on the outside.
I let them cool for a few minutes before serving so they hold their shape.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 16 cheese balls from this recipe.
Preparation time is around 10 minutes.
Baking time is about 10 to 12 minutes.
Total time comes to roughly 22 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes use all mozzarella for a milder flavor or swap in parmesan for a sharper bite.
I like adding chili flakes when I want a spicy version.
I occasionally mix in dried herbs or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
I also make mini versions for party platters.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
I reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crisp texture.
I avoid using the microwave because it makes them too soft.
FAQs
Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
I often prepare the mixture in advance and keep it covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Are these cheese balls really zero-carb?
I stick to cheese, egg, and seasonings only, which keeps them naturally zero-carb.
Can I fry these instead of baking?
I prefer baking, but I have pan-fried them on low heat with good results.
Why did my cheese balls spread?
I noticed this happens when the oven is not fully preheated or the cheese mixture is too warm.
Can I freeze cheese balls?
I freeze them after baking and reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
Conclusion
I find this cheese balls recipe incredibly reliable and satisfying. It proves that a zero-carb snack can still be comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. Whenever I need a quick bite or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this is one of the first recipes I turn to.
These zero-carb cheese balls are crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and made with just a few simple ingredients. They’re the perfect low-carb snack or appetizer, ready in under 25 minutes with no flour or breadcrumbs needed.
Ingredients
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese
1 large egg
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar or parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt.
Mix until fully combined and slightly sticky.
Scoop small portions and roll into bite-sized balls.
Arrange cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and slightly crisp on the outside.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use all mozzarella for a milder flavor or add more parmesan for a sharper taste.
Add chili flakes for heat or smoked paprika for depth.
Make mini versions for appetizers or party platters.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture—avoid microwaving.
Freeze baked cheese balls and reheat from frozen in the oven.
