Crispy on the outside and oozing with melted cheese on the inside – who can resist tasty cheese curds? This air fryer cheese curds recipe produces the perfect snack or appetizer that will have everyone begging for more. Air frying helps create a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the cheese tender.
Cheese curds are bite-sized pieces of cheese that make for a fun finger food. Using the air fryer gives you that coveted crunch without the extra calories from deep frying.
Feel free to dip these addictive cheese curds in your favorite condiment like marinara sauce or ranch dressing. Crispy, gooey cheese curds ready in just minutes? Yes, please! Keep reading to get the full recipe.
💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Outside, Gooey Inside- The air fryer gives these cheese curds an incredibly crispy, crunchy exterior while keeping the cheese inside warm and gooey. With each bite, you get a delightful texture contrast that is simply addictive.
Fried Taste Without All the Fat- Who doesn’t love the flavor of fried cheese curds? This recipe uses an air fryer to create that fried taste and texture, while using significantly less oil than traditional deep frying. A much healthier yet equally tasty way to enjoy this snack!
Perfect Pairings For Next-Level Snacking- Take these cheese curds to the next level by serving with ranch or marinara dipping sauce for dunking. They also shine when served alongside apple slices, celery sticks, flatbreads, fried pickles or crispy fries.
✨ Recipe Ingredients
To make these delicious air fryer cheese curds you will need:
- 10oz (285g) Cheese Curds
- 1 cup All-purpose Flour
- 2 Beaten Eggs
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (regular)
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
👨🍳 How To Make
Follow this easy recipe and make the best air fried cheese curds:
Step 1
Place the beaten eggs in one bowl, and the flower in another bowl. Then, combine and whisk the regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt in a third bowl.
Step 2
Toss the cheese curds in the flour until they are evenly coated. Shake off excess flour. Then, place the curds in the beaten eggs and mix until they are coated.
Step 3
Coat the cheese curds with the breadcrumb mix. Then, place them on a sheet pan that you lined with parchment paper.
Step 4
Place them in the freezer for 40 minutes.
Step 5
Place the cheese curds in the air fryer (in a single layer – it’s very important!) and spray them with cooking oil (I use olive oil cooking spray).
Step 6
Air fry at 370F (190C) for about 5 minutes or until the breading becomes golden. The cheese should be melted in the center.
Step 7
Remove them from the air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. That’s it! Enjoy these delicious and crispy air fryer cheese curds!
💡Tips
1. Fry in a Single Layer
Air flow is crucial for even cooking in an air fryer, so always cook in a single layer and avoid overcrowding. This allows the hot air to circulate fully around each piece. Fry the cheese curds in batches if needed.
2. Adjust Cook Times as Needed
Cooking times can vary greatly between air fryer models. Keep an eye on the curds and adjust cook times up or down a minute or two for your particular appliance. The coating should be evenly crisp and golden, while the centers remain molten.
3. Choosing the Right Cheese Curds
The choice of cheese curds is important for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your air fryer cheese curds. Opt for fresh cheese curds that are firm and squeaky to the touch.
These curds have a higher moisture content, which contributes to the desirable gooey texture when melted.
I recommend looking for cheese curds made from cheddar or mozzarella, as they tend to work best for this cheese curds air fryer recipe.
You can find cheese curds at your local cheese shop or grocery store. If you can’t find them, consider making your own curds – it’s not too complicated.
4. The Freezing Step
One of the secrets to achieving perfectly crispy and melty cheese curds in air fryer is to freeze them before air frying. Freezing the cheese curds for at least 40 minutes helps the breading set and prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly during the air frying process.
The freezing step solidifies the cheese curds, allowing the breading to crisp up while keeping the cheese inside intact. Make sure to line the sheet pan with parchment paper before placing the curds on it, as this prevents them from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
5. Experiment with Seasoning Variations
While the fried cheese curds air fryer recipe calls for a classic combination of black pepper, garlic powder, and salt, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasoning variations to add a unique twist to your air fryer cheese curds.
Consider adding herbs like dried thyme, oregano, or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture to infuse additional flavors. You can also incorporate grated Parmesan cheese or finely chopped fresh herbs into the breadcrumb mixture for added complexity.
6. Exploring Sweet and Savory Combinations
While savory cheese curds are a classic choice, don’t forget to explore sweet and savory combinations for a unique twist.
Consider adding a touch of sweetness to your air fryer cheese curds by incorporating ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon into the breadcrumb mixture.
The contrast between the slightly sweet coating and the savory melted cheese creates a delightful flavor experience.
You can also experiment with pairing the sweet cheese curds with a tangy dip, such as a raspberry balsamic reduction or a citrus-infused yogurt sauce.
This sweet and savory combination adds complexity to the dish and takes your air fryer cheese curds to the next level of creativity.
7. Adding Heat to the Breadcrumb Mixture
If you want to infuse some heat directly into the breadcrumb coating of your air fryer cheese curds, there are several ingredients you can incorporate to achieve that spicy kick.
Cayenne Pepper: Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Cayenne pepper is known for its fiery heat, so adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Chili Powder: Sprinkle chili powder into the breadcrumb mixture to add a smoky and spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on the desired level of heat.
Hot Paprika: Hot paprika or smoked paprika can add both heat and a smoky flavor to the breadcrumb mixture. Experiment with different varieties to find the one that suits your taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes provide a spicy and slightly fruity flavor. Add them to the breadcrumb mixture for a burst of heat.
Spicy Seasoning Blends: You can also use pre-made spicy seasoning blends, such as Cajun seasoning or a spicy barbecue rub, to add heat and complexity to the breadcrumb mixture.
Variations
1. Spicy Jalapeno Cheese Curds: For those who love a fiery kick, try making spicy jalapeno cheese curds.
Simply dice fresh jalapeños and mix them into the breadcrumb mixture before coating the cheese curds. The heat from the jalapenos will infuse into the breading, creating a deliciously spicy and cheesy experience.
Serve these tasty jalapeño cheese curds with a cooling ranch or sour cream dip to balance the heat.
2. Buffalo-Style Cheese Curds: If you’re a fan of buffalo wings, you’ll love this buffalo-style variation. Simply toss the cheese curds in a mixture of hot sauce and melted butter before coating them in the breadcrumb mixture.
The combination of tangy and spicy flavors will give your air fryer cheese curds a Buffalo-inspired twist.
Serve them with a side of creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for the ultimate buffalo cheese curd experience.
3. Garlic Parmesan Cheese Curds: For a savory and cheesy flavor explosion, you can make garlic Parmesan cheese curds.
Add garlic powder, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture.
These air fryer cheese curds are perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or a garlic aioli.
4. BBQ Bacon Cheese Curds: Indulge in the irresistible combination of smoky barbecue and crispy bacon with these BBQ bacon cheese curds.
Before coating the cheese curds, mix crumbled cooked bacon and your favorite barbecue seasoning into the breadcrumb mixture.
The smoky, savory flavors of the bacon combined with the tangy sweetness of barbecue seasoning will take your cheese curds to a whole new level.
Serve them with a side of homemade barbecue sauce for a mouthwatering experience.
5. Taco Seasoned Cheese Curds: Give your air fryer cheese curds a Tex-Mex twist with taco seasoning.Mix taco seasoning into the breadcrumb mixture to infuse the curds with the flavors of cumin, chili powder, and other aromatic spices.
These taco-seasoned cheese curds are fantastic on their own, but you can also use them as a filling for tacos or serve them alongside guacamole and salsa for a delicious appetizer.
6. Herbed Parmesan Cheese Curds: Mix grated Parmesan cheese, dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, and a pinch of garlic powder into the breadcrumb mixture.
The combination of Parmesan and herbs adds a sophisticated and aromatic flavor to the curds.
Serve them with a creamy garlic and herb dip for a gourmet twist on traditional cheese curds.
7. Truffle Oil Cheese Curds: For a luxurious and decadent treat, you can make truffle oil cheese curds. Drizzle a small amount of truffle oil over the coated curds before air frying.
The truffle oil will impart its unique earthy and savory flavor to the cheese curds, taking them to a whole new level of indulgence.
Serve these truffle-infused cheese curds with a side of truffle aioli for an extravagant appetizer that will impress any cheese lover.
↩️ Ingredient Substitutions
Breadcrumbs (Regular): If you don’t have regular breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or cornflakes as a replacement.
Garlic Powder: If you don’t have garlic powder, you can use granulated garlic or minced fresh garlic.
Panko Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as an alternative.
Best Dipping Sauces
1. Classic Marinara Sauce: The tangy and savory flavors of a classic marinara sauce perfectly complement the cheesy goodness of the air fryer cheese curds.
The rich tomato base, combined with aromatic herbs and garlic, adds a burst of freshness to each bite.
2. Creamy Ranch Dip: The cool and creamy ranch dip provides a delightful contrast to the warm and crispy cheese curds.
The tanginess of the ranch, with its blend of herbs and spices, cuts through the richness of the cheese and adds a refreshing element to each bite.
3. Tangy BBQ Sauce: For those who enjoy a touch of smokiness and sweetness, pairing the air fryer cheese curds with tangy BBQ sauce is a winning combination.
4. Spicy Sriracha Mayo: If you’re looking to add some heat to your cheese curds, a spicy sriracha mayo dipping sauce is the way to go.
The fiery kick of sriracha combined with the creamy and slightly tangy mayo creates a sauce that amplifies the flavors of the cheese curds.
5. Sweet and Tangy Honey Mustard: For a touch of sweetness and tang, honey mustard is a fantastic dipping sauce choice. The combination of honey and mustard creates a harmonious balance of flavors that complements the savory cheese curds.
Keto / Low Carb Version
To make a keto/low-carb version of the air fryer cheese curds, you’ll need to make a few substitutions to eliminate the high-carb ingredients. Here’s how:
Replace All-Purpose Flour: Instead of all-purpose flour, use a low-carb flour alternative such as almond flour or coconut flour. These flours are lower in carbohydrates and higher in healthy fats.
Substitute Breadcrumbs: Swap the regular breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or a combination of crushed pork rinds and grated Parmesan cheese.
Use Keto-Friendly Dipping Sauces: Instead of traditional dipping sauces that may contain added sugars, opt for keto-friendly options such as sugar-free marinara sauce, homemade keto-friendly ranch dressing, or a spicy mayo made with sugar-free mayonnaise and hot sauce.
Gluten Free Version
Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. There are various gluten-free flour blends available in stores, typically made from a combination of rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch.
Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Replace both the regular breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can find pre-made gluten-free breadcrumbs at many grocery stores. Alternatively, you can make your own by toasting gluten-free bread and then grinding it into crumbs using a food processor.
Storage
These air fried cheese curds taste best when served immediately after cooking. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving again.
To reheat, place the cheese curds in a single layer and air fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, until warmed through. Serve immediately.
You’ll Love These Recipes Too
If you liked my cheese curds air fryer recipe, make sure to check out these air fryer recipes too:
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do you freeze the cheese curds before air frying?
Freezing the cheese curds helps the breading adhere better and stay crispy when air frying. The cold temperature firms up the breading coating.
2. Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Yes, preheat your air fryer to 370°F before air frying the cheese curds. Starting with a hot air fryer is key to getting a crispy golden coating.
3. What’s the best dipping sauce for air fried cheese curds?
Popular dipping sauces include ranch dressing, marinara sauce, nacho cheese sauce, honey mustard, or even chocolate sauce for a sweet and salty contrast. Get creative with your favorite condiments!
4. Can I cook more cheese curds at once by stacking them in the air fryer basket?
It’s important to cook the cheese curds in a single layer, not stacked. This allows the hot air to properly circulate around each piece for even crisping. Cook larger batches in batches. Don’t overcrowd.
These air fried cheese curds are crunchy on the outside and oozing with melty cheese on the inside – the perfect snack or appetizer! I hope you’ll give this easy air fryer recipe a try soon.
Be sure to visit the website for more air fryer recipes, tips, and ideas. Let me know if you have any questions about making these delicious cheese curds in the comments below!
Air Fryer Cheese Curds
- 10 oz Cheese Curds (285g)
- 1 cup All-purpose Flour
- 2 Beaten Eggs
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (regular)
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
- Place the beaten eggs in one bowl, and the flower in another bowl. Then, combine and whisk the regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt in a third bowl.
- Toss the cheese curds in the flour until they are evenly coated. Shake off excess flour.Then, place the curds in the beaten eggs and mix until they are coated.
- Coat the cheese curds with the breadcrumb mix. Then, place them on a sheet pan that you lined with parchment paper.
- Place them in the freezer for 40 minutes.
- Place the cheese curds in the air fryer (in a single layer!) and spray them with cooking oil.
- Air fry at 370F (190C) for about 5 minutes or until the breading becomes golden. The cheese should be melted in the center.
- Remove them from the air fryer and serve.
