Spicy Garlic Herb Cheese Bites
These Spicy Garlic Herb Cheese Bites are an irresistible appetizer, offering a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and subtly spicy flavors in a delightful, bite-sized package. Encased in a crispy, golden-brown breadcrumb coating, each warm morsel delivers a burst of aromatic herbs and piquant garlic. They are incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for last-minute entertaining or a satisfying snack.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Total Time
35-40 minutes
Servings
Makes approximately 24-28 bites
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- An irresistible combination of creamy, spicy, and herbaceous flavors.
- Crispy exterior with a warm, gooey cheese interior.
- Perfectly portioned for effortless party snacking.
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for last-minute guests.
- Versatile and customizable to suit different spice preferences.
Ingredients
- 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 100 g (1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 5 ml (1 teaspoon) dried oregano
- 5 ml (1 teaspoon) dried basil
- 2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon) red pepper flakes (adjust to desired heat)
- Pinch of sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 60 g (1/2 cup) plain breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs recommended for extra crispness)
- 15 g (1/4 cup) fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial for preventing the cheese bites from sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, freshly minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and black pepper. Using a sturdy spoon or rubber spatula, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and form a uniform, cohesive mixture. Ensure there are no streaks of unmixed cream cheese.
- Using a small scoop or your hands, take portions of the cheese mixture, roughly 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Gently roll each portion between your palms to form compact, smooth balls. Aim for consistency in size, as this helps ensure even baking.
- Pour the plain breadcrumbs into a shallow dish or a wide, flat plate. Carefully roll each cheese ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is completely coated on all sides. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the surface of the cheese balls to help them adhere securely.
- Arrange the coated cheese balls in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a small amount of space between each bite to allow for proper air circulation and even browning during baking. Do not overcrowd the sheet.
- Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese bites achieve a beautiful golden-brown color on the outside. The cheese inside should be wonderfully melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Once golden and crisp, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the spicy garlic herb cheese bites to cool on the baking sheet for approximately 5 minutes before attempting to move them. This brief cooling period helps them firm up slightly, making them easier to handle and preventing them from falling apart.
- Transfer the slightly cooled cheese bites to a serving platter. Just before serving, generously sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley over them. The fresh parsley adds a vibrant burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich, spicy cheese.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula or sturdy spoon
- Small scoop (optional)
- Shallow dish or plate
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Essential Success Tips
- Ensure cream cheese is at true room temperature for smooth mixing and easier forming of balls, preventing lumps.
- For extra crispiness, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, as they provide a lighter, crunchier coating.
- If the mixture is too soft to roll easily, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before forming the balls.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; allow space between each cheese bite for even air circulation and browning.
- Serve immediately for the best experience, as the cheese is gooey and delicious when warm.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- Elevate the flavor profile by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of onion powder to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of depth.
- For an even richer flavor, substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère or fontina, which melt beautifully and add complex nutty notes.
- Offer a gourmet dipping sauce, such as a roasted red pepper aioli or a sweet chili jam, to complement the savory and spicy cheese bites.
Notes
- These cheese bites are best served warm, straight from the oven. If making ahead, bake them, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
- For an extra kick, finely chop a small jalapeño and add it to the cheese mixture. Remove seeds for less heat.
- While delicious on their own, these also pair wonderfully with a simple marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these cheese bites in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and roll it into balls, then coat them in breadcrumbs. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What kind of breadcrumbs are best for this recipe?
While regular plain breadcrumbs work well, panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended. Their larger, flakier texture results in a much crispier and lighter coating, enhancing the overall texture of the cheese bites.
How can I make these cheese bites less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, simply omit the red pepper flakes from the recipe. You can also add a pinch of sweet paprika instead for a mild, smoky flavor without the heat.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 150-180 per serving (3-4 bites), Protein: 8-10g, Fat: 12-15g, Carbs: 5-7g. (Estimates based on typical ingredient values and serving size).
Allergy Information
Contains dairy and gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a lower-fat option, use light cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar, though the texture may vary slightly.
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