Air-Fried Babybel Cheese

Introduction

There’s something undeniably delightful about the crispy crunch of fried cheese, and these Air-Fried Babybel Cheese rounds deliver that satisfaction without the guilt of traditional frying. When I first made this recipe, my family couldn’t get enough! The outside is perfectly crispy, while the inside remains gooey and delicious. They make an excellent snack for movie nights or a fun appetizer for gatherings. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to prepare and air-frying means you can enjoy them with less oil. Let me take you through this delicious journey!

Ingredients

• 8 Babybel cheese rounds
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large egg
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare cheese: Unwrap the Babybel cheese rounds and set them aside.
2. Prepare breading station: In one bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat cheese: Dip each Babybel cheese round into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until well covered.
4. Preheat air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Air fry: Place the coated cheese rounds in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
6. Serve: Allow the cheese to cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 90
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 5g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with:
• Marinara sauce for dipping
• Ranch dressing
• Honey mustard sauce
• Spicy sriracha mayo
• A side of fresh veggies

Additional Tips

1. Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture, like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
2. Use different cheeses: Try using other cheese varieties like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
3. Keep an eye on them: Cooking times can vary based on your air fryer model, so monitor closely to achieve the perfect crispiness.
4. Make it a meal: Pair the air-fried cheese with a salad for a complete meal.
5. Batch cooking: You can prepare a larger batch and reheat them in the air fryer for a quick snack.

Recipe Variations

• Bacon-Wrapped Babybel: Wrap each cheese round in a slice of bacon before breading for an indulgent twist.
• Buffalo Babybel: Toss the cooked cheese in buffalo sauce for a spicy flavor.
• Herbed Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor without the need for extra spices.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, nuts, and olives.
• Serve alongside a refreshing salad to balance the richness of the cheese.
• Include as part of a game-day snack spread.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the breaded cheese rounds before air-frying. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of cheese?

• Yes, other semi-soft cheeses like gouda or mozzarella work well.

1. How do I know when they’re done?

• They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

1. What if I don’t have an air fryer?

• You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

1. Can I make these gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this snack suitable for gluten-free diets.

1. How can I make them spicier?

• Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.

1. What dipping sauces pair well with these?

• Marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo are great choices!

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I cook these from frozen?

• Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

1. Are these suitable for kids?
   • Yes, kids love the cheesy, crispy goodness!

Conclusion

Air-Fried Babybel Cheese is not only a quick and delicious snack but also a fun way to enjoy cheese in a new format. Whether you’re preparing for a family movie night, a gathering with friends, or simply craving a tasty bite, these cheese rounds are sure to impress. The combination of gooey cheese and crunchy coating is irresistible! Try this recipe today and enjoy the cheesy goodness that everyone will love!

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