Crispy Baked Cheese Curds
Discover the delightful twist on a beloved snack with these Crispy Baked Cheese Curds, perfect for tailgates, game nights, or any gathering! After experimenting with various methods for frying and baking cheese curds, I've crafted this unique recipe that combines the best of both worlds. The secret to achieving perfect texture and flavor lies in the double breading technique, which creates a satisfyingly crunchy exterior while keeping the cheese gooey and melty inside. With the added step of freezing before baking and a light spray of olive oil for golden perfection, these cheese curds are sure to impress your friends and family. Dip them in marinara sauce for an irresistible appetizer that will have everyone asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
cheese curds
10 ounces (fresh)
flour
1 cup (seasoned with salt and pepper)
eggs
4 (beaten)
milk
2 tablespoons
seasoned bread crumbs
2 cups (Italian seasoned panko style)
salt
2 teaspoons
ground pepper
1 teaspoon
olive oil flavored cooking spray
(for coating)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Set up a breading station with three trays: the first tray containing seasoned flour (mix flour with salt and pepper), the second tray filled with beaten eggs and milk (seasoned as well), and the third tray with panko bread crumbs.
3
Using a dry hand, coat each cheese curd in the flour mixture, ensuring an even layer, then transfer it to the egg wash with your wet hand.
4
Once coated in egg, return the cheese curd back to the flour to dust off any excess, then roll it in the bread crumbs to cover completely.
5
For extra crunch, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumbs process again, making sure each curd is fully covered.
6
Place the double-breaded cheese curds on a wax paper-lined cookie sheet.
7
Once all the cheese curds are breaded, freeze them on the cookie sheet for at least 4 hours or until fully set. For longer storage, transfer them to a freezer bag at this stage.
8
After the curds are frozen, place them on a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet, ensuring they are spaced to allow even cooking.
9
Lightly spray each cheese curd with olive oil spray to encourage browning.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and you notice a little cheese oozing out.
11
Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Nutrition Information
10
Fat
22
Carbs
6.5
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to achieving the perfect texture for these cheese curds?
The secret lies in the double breading technique, which creates a satisfyingly crunchy exterior while keeping the cheese gooey and melty inside.
How long do the cheese curds need to be frozen before baking?
They should be frozen on a cookie sheet for at least 4 hours or until they are fully set.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
What kind of bread crumbs are best for this recipe?
Italian seasoned panko style bread crumbs are recommended for the best crunch and flavor.
How many eggs are required for the breading station?
You will need 4 beaten eggs.
What should I serve with these crispy baked cheese curds?
They are best served hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
How do I ensure the cheese curds turn golden brown in the oven?
Lightly spray each breaded curd with olive oil flavored cooking spray before putting them in the oven to encourage browning.
What is the baking time for this recipe?
Bake the cheese curds for 15 to 20 minutes.
How much cheese is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 10 ounces of fresh cheese curds.
Is the flour seasoned in this recipe?
Yes, the flour should be mixed with salt and pepper for seasoning.
How many trays are needed for the breading station?
You will need three trays: one for seasoned flour, one for the egg and milk wash, and one for the panko bread crumbs.
Can I store the breaded curds in the freezer for a long time?
Yes, once they are fully set on the cookie sheet, you can transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
How do I know when the cheese curds are finished baking?
They are ready when they are golden brown and you notice a small amount of cheese starting to ooze out.
What is the calorie count for this snack?
This recipe contains approximately 200 calories per serving.
How much protein is in a serving of these cheese curds?
There are 6.5 grams of protein per serving.
What is the total carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 22 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
What should I line the cookie sheet with when baking?
Use parchment paper to line the cookie sheet for baking to prevent sticking.
What should I line the cookie sheet with when freezing?
Use wax paper to line the cookie sheet during the initial freezing process.
How much milk is added to the egg wash?
Add 2 tablespoons of milk to the beaten eggs.
Should the curds be spaced out on the baking sheet?
Yes, ensure they are spaced out to allow for even cooking and heat circulation.
What is the 'double breading' process specifically?
It involves coating the curd in flour, then egg wash, then flour again, then bread crumbs, and finally repeating the egg wash and bread crumbs steps.
What kind of occasions is this recipe recommended for?
These are perfect for tailgates, game nights, or any social gathering.
How much salt and pepper are used in the coating?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper.
Is the egg wash seasoned?
Yes, the instructions suggest seasoning the egg and milk mixture in the second tray.
Do I need to use a specific hand for breading?
The recipe suggests using a 'dry hand' for flour/breadcrumbs and a 'wet hand' for the egg wash to keep the process clean.
What type of cooking spray is used?
Olive oil flavored cooking spray is used for coating.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total.
Can I use Italian bread crumbs instead of panko?
The recipe specifically recommends Italian seasoned panko style for the best crunch, but regular seasoned crumbs can be used as a substitute.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized as an appetizer and a snack.