Description
Ballz on Fire are fiery, creamy cheese-stuffed bites rolled in crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and baked or air-fried to crispy perfection. Whether you’re hosting game night or just need a bold snack, these bites bring serious heat and serious flavor. Melty inside, crunchy outside, and impossible to stop eating—make a batch and watch them disappear!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
¼ tsp paprika or cayenne (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
2 cups Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, crushed into fine crumbs
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 tbsp water
Instructions
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, pepper jack, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Form the cheese balls: Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of the mixture and roll into balls. Place on a tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm.
Crush the Cheetos: Use a food processor or a bag-and-rolling-pin method to crush Flamin’ Hot Cheetos into fine crumbs. Pour into a shallow bowl.
Dredge and coat: Set up a dredging station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs mixed with water in another, and crushed Cheetos in a third. Roll each frozen cheese ball in flour, then dip in egg wash, and coat fully in Cheeto crumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and Cheeto coating.
Cook your way:
Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Air fry for 7–9 minutes until crispy and hot.
Oven: Preheat to 400°F (205°C). Bake on a lined sheet for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Deep Fryer: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Cool slightly and serve: Let rest for a few minutes before biting in—these babies are molten hot inside!
Notes
Want a milder version? Swap in regular Cheetos or nacho chips.
Add chopped jalapeños to the filling for extra fire.
Use mozzarella or gouda if you want a different melt or flavor twist.
These can be frozen before cooking—just prep, coat, and freeze. Cook straight from frozen with a couple extra minutes.
Don’t overcrowd your air fryer or baking tray—space is key to that golden crunch!