Save Fried goat cheese is my go-to trick for making any salad feel special or creating a crowd-pleasing party snack with very little effort. These golden disks hit that perfect balance between creamy tang inside and crisp crunch outside. They only need a handful of everyday ingredients and turn out so impressive, friends always ask for the recipe.
My kids love helping with the breading line and the reward of melty cheese is always worth the short wait. I started making these for holiday snacks and now keep them in rotation for weekday lunches too.
Ingredients
- Goat cheese: Look for a fresh log that feels firm when gently squeezed If you find one that is crumbly it helps to chill it more so it holds together
- Panko bread crumbs: Find the crispiest panko you can and avoid regular bread crumbs which will not crisp up the same Try Japanese-style panko if available
- Everything But The Bagel Seasoning: Optional but it brings a fun burst of flavor If you skip it try adding a pinch of coarse salt for balance
- Egg: Fresh eggs whisk up best for a light coating on the cheese Check that the yolk is deep orange for rich flavor
- All purpose flour: Use unbleached flour for a cleaner taste and dust off any extra to avoid a gummy crust
Instructions
- Chill the Cheese:
- Let the goat cheese rest in the freezer for about thirty minutes This firms it up and makes the slicing and breading process cleaner and easier especially with a soft cheese
- Slice Neatly:
- Using a sharp knife run under hot water trim the chilled goat cheese log into six equal disks Wipe the blade between cuts to keep the slices neat
- Set Up Breading Station:
- Arrange three shallow bowls or plates with flour egg wash and seasoned panko crumbs Whisk one egg with a splash of water until frothy and toss the panko with Everything But The Bagel Seasoning if using
- Dredge the Cheese:
- Carefully coat each goat cheese disk first in flour shaking off the excess so just a hint sticks Dip it in the egg wash ensuring all sides are covered Finish by pressing into the panko crumbs while gently turning and pressing for an even coating
- Fry to Perfection:
- Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a shallow pan over medium heat Once shimmering carefully add the breaded cheese disks Cook each for about one minute per side flipping every fifteen to thirty seconds until all sides are deep golden brown
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the fried cheese rounds to a paper towel lined plate Let them drain for one to two minutes before serving while still warm for the ultimate creamy crunch
Save I will never forget the first time my daughter dipped these in honey and declared it her new favorite food She calls them cheese cookies and requests them for every family party
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If you need to rewarm pop them in a hot oven for five minutes to regain crunch Microwaving will soften the coating too much
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can not find goat cheese a similar soft cheese like feta will work for a saltier punch For seasoning try Italian herbs or smoked paprika in the panko for a new twist If you want extra crunch add crushed nuts like walnuts or almonds
Serving Suggestions
These rounds shine atop a bitter greens salad with roasted beets and walnuts Or offer them on a cheeseboard with dried fruit and fig jam For something different tuck one inside a burger for a burst of tangy flavor
Cultural and Historical Context
Fried cheese has roots in both Mediterranean and American kitchens Goat cheese in particular has long been favored in French cuisine Its transformation into crispy disks is a beloved appetizer at bistros across the US
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap Everything But The Bagel Seasoning for herbes de Provence in spring Serve with cranberry compote around the holidays Try tiny goat cheese bites for summer picnics plated alongside tomatoes and basil
Success Stories
A friend once brought these to a book club and they disappeared before everyone even arrived When I shared this recipe a neighbor made them for his anniversary dinner appetizer and his family raved
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can bread the cheese rounds and freeze them solid on a tray Once frozen move them to a bag Fry straight from the freezer they just need an extra thirty seconds in the pan and come out perfectly crisp
Save Serve these warm for the most irresistible creamy center and crackling crust They vanish fast so have a second batch ready to fry
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep goat cheese rounds from falling apart when frying?
Chill or freeze the goat cheese before slicing and coating. This helps them hold together during frying.
- → Can I use flavored panko or add seasonings?
Absolutely! Add Everything But The Bagel Seasoning or other herbs and spices to the panko for extra flavor.
- → What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil like olive or canola oil. Ensure the pan is well-heated before frying for crisp results.
- → How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Press the panko firmly onto the cheese. Dredge in flour and egg wash thoroughly for better adhesion.
- → What can I serve with fried goat cheese?
These bites pair excellent with salads, as appetizers, on burgers, or with dips like honey or balsamic glaze.
- → Is it necessary to use eggs in the coating?
The egg wash is important as it helps the panko adhere to the goat cheese for an even, golden crust.