Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsPumphouseCheese Curds Recipe

Cheese Curds Recipe

Inspired by Pumphouse
Time1h
Serves4

Breaded cheddar served with sides of house-made ranch and marinara

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Ingredients

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Cheese Curds

House-made Ranch

Marinara Sauce

Method

Cheese Curds

  1. 1

    Prepare the Breading Station

    Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    Bread the Cheese Curds

    Dip each cheddar cheese curd first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

  3. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  4. 4

    Fry the Cheese Curds

    Carefully add breaded cheese curds to the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Remove and drain on paper towels.

House-made Ranch

  1. 5

    Combine Ingredients

    In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

  2. 6

    Chill

    Cover and refrigerate the ranch dressing for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Marinara Sauce

  1. 7

    Sauté Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).

  2. 8

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar to the saucepan. Stir to combine.

  3. 9

    Simmer Sauce

    Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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