Name: Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (mixed with salt); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon whole milk; 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs; 16 ounces cheese curds; Vegetable oil (for frying)

When it comes to iconic snacks from the Midwest, few can hold a candle to the beloved fried cheese curds served at Culver’s. Those golden bites of gooey cheese, enveloped in a crispy coating, are a true Wisconsin treasure. But did you know that you can recreate this delightful dish right in your own kitchen? Today, we’re diving into how to make Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure, a dish that is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Fried cheese curds are not just a snack; they are a celebration of flavor and texture. The crunch of the breadcrumb coating gives way to a melty, cheesy center that is irresistible. Whether served at a party, game day, or just as a fun treat, these curds are guaranteed to be a hit. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like Chipotle Aioli, and watch them disappear in no time. Their unique taste and texture make them a standout addition to any gathering.

What Goes Into Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure

To create these delightful bites, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 eggs
1 tablespoon whole milk
2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
16 ounces cheese curds
Vegetable oil for frying

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect blend of crispy and cheesy goodness.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before we get started, let’s gather the necessary gear to make this process smooth and enjoyable:

Frying pan or deep fryer – Essential for achieving that perfect fry.
Slotted spoon – To remove fried curds from the oil without excess grease.
Mixing bowls – For preparing your breading station.
Paper towels – To absorb any extra oil after frying.

With the right tools, you’ll be ready to whip up these delicious curds in no time.

Cook Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure Like This

Now, let’s jump into the step-by-step process of making Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure.

Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station

Start by setting up your breading station. In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour mixed with salt. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until combined. Finally, place the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Step 2: Coat the Cheese Curds

Take each cheese curd and first dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it is evenly coated. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the curd in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. Repeat this process for all the cheese curds.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to submerge the curds for even frying.

Step 4: Fry the Cheese Curds

Carefully add the breaded cheese curds to the hot oil in small batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once all the curds are fried, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. For a delightful pairing, try them with Easy Homemade French Fries for a complete snack experience.

In-Season Swaps

If you’re looking to customize your fried cheese curds, consider these in-season swaps:

Herbed breadcrumbs – Use fresh herbs in your breadcrumb mix for an extra flavor boost.
Different cheese varieties – Experiment with different types of cheese curds for unique flavors.
Spicy seasonings – Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs for a kick.
Gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs – Substitute with gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

These variations can elevate your cheese curds and make them even more exciting.

What Not to Do

When making Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t overcrowd the frying pan – Fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
Don’t skip the drying step – Ensure excess moisture is removed from the cheese curds before breading.
Don’t use cold oil – Always preheat the oil to the right temperature to prevent greasy curds.
Don’t rush – Allow the curds to fry until they’re golden brown for the best texture.

Avoiding these missteps will ensure your cheese curds turn out perfectly every time.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to enjoy these fried cheese curds later, here’s how to make ahead and store them:

Preparation – Bread the cheese curds ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry.
Storage – Store any leftover fried curds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating – Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy again, rather than using the microwave.

This way, you can savor the deliciousness of Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure even after the initial frying.

Quick Q&A

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheese curds are traditional, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, cut into bite-sized pieces.

Do I need to use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs?

While Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add great flavor, you can use plain breadcrumbs and season them with your choice of spices for a personalized touch.

Can I bake these cheese curds instead of frying them?

Yes! For a lighter version, you can spray them with cooking oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

What dipping sauces pair well with fried cheese curds?

Fried cheese curds are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a spicy Chipotle Aioli.

If you’re looking for more delicious ideas to make in your frying pan, consider these:

These options can turn your snack time into a full-fledged feast.

The Takeaway

Creating Copycat Culvers Fried Cheese Curds: Wisconsins Golden Treasure at home is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, you can indulge in this crispy, cheesy delight that captures the essence of Wisconsin’s culinary scene. So gather your friends, set up your frying station, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Midwest from the comfort of your kitchen.