Creamy Fried Bombs Recipe
Creamy fried bombs are delicious bite-sized treats that feature a crispy, golden exterior with a rich, creamy filling inside. These bites can be made with various fillings, from cheese to mashed potatoes or even creamy vegetables, and they’re perfect as appetizers, snacks, or party food. The crispy outer layer combined with the creamy interior creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Here’s a simple and versatile recipe for Creamy Fried Bombs with a cheesy filling.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese of your choice, like cheddar or pepper jack)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional, for a smoky flavor)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic (if using).
- Add the fresh parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also mix in crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
- Stir the mixture until everything is well combined. The filling should be thick and creamy.
2. Form the Bombs:
- Take small spoonfuls of the creamy filling and roll them into small balls, about the size of a walnut (around 1-inch diameter). Set them aside on a plate or tray.
- Once all the filling is shaped into balls, place them in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the filling firm up and prevents it from melting out during frying.
3. Prepare the Coating:
- In one shallow dish, add the all-purpose flour. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and a little salt and pepper.
4. Coat the Bombs:
- Once the filling has firmed up, dip each ball first into the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated, then into the egg wash, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
5. Fry the Bombs:
- Heat a large amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be about 350°F (175°C) to achieve crispy, golden bombs.
- Carefully place the coated balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy all around.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried bombs from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve:
- Serve the creamy fried bombs immediately while they’re hot and crispy. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce such as marinara sauce, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
Variations:
- Mashed Potato Filling: For a twist, you can replace the cheese filling with mashed potatoes for a comforting, creamy bite. You can even add sautéed onions or garlic to the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
- Vegetable Filling: For a veggie-packed version, mix in cooked spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables with your creamy filling.
- Buffalo Chicken: Add cooked, shredded chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and cream cheese for a spicy, savory filling.
Tips:
- Freezing the Filling: Don’t skip the freezing step! Chilling the filling ensures that it doesn’t leak out during frying.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
- Adjust Heat: Keep an eye on the temperature of the oil. If it’s too hot, the bombs may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside, and if it’s too cold, they might become greasy and soggy.
Conclusion:
Creamy fried bombs are a fun and delicious treat that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you go for a classic cheese filling, mashed potatoes, or a savory chicken version, these little bombs are sure to be a hit. The crispy golden coating and creamy, melty interior create an irresistible snack or appetizer. Try this recipe for your next party or family gathering, and prepare for the compliments!