The Ultimate Shavuot Appetizer: Melty Mushroom-Stuffed Cheese Balls

Get ready to elevate your Shavuot table with these irresistible mushroom-stuffed cheese balls! Crispy on the outside, gooey and melty on the inside, this dairy recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone (yes, even your kids) asking for seconds. Perfect for the holiday’s festive spread, these cheesy bites bring savory comfort and celebration to every bite.

Servings: 10

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Medium

Kashrus: Dairy

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp olive oil (for frying)

1 small onion, finely diced

1 cup canned or 4 fresh mushrooms, diced

1 cup (250g) 5% cream cheese

¾ cup (150g) grated feta or other salty cheese

¾ cup (150g) grated mozzarella or cheddar

2 heaping Tbsp all-purpose flour

Pinch of kosher salt

Pinch of black pepper

1 tsp dried basil or oregano (optional)

For Coating:

1 large egg

1 cup golden breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until golden, then add mushrooms and cook until caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly, draining excess oil.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled mushroom-onion mix with cream cheese, feta, mozzarella, flour, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Mix until smooth.

3. Shape the mixture into small, falafel-sized balls.

4. Freeze the balls for 2 hours (or until ready to serve) to firm them up.

5. Set up two plates: one with a beaten egg and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each ball in the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.

6. Deep-fry in hot oil until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Serve hot for maximum meltiness.

Serving Tip: Pair with a creamy garlic dip or a tangy marinara sauce for an extra flavor kick.

Chag Sameach!