Feta cheese is a powerhouse of flavor, known for its tangy, salty and creamy profile. As the centerpiece of recipes like Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, feta adds a sharp, savory twist that balances bold spices beautifully. Its adaptability makes it a must-have ingredient for event meal planning, whether you’re serving game-day appetizers, vibrant salads or Mediterranean-inspired dishes. As we move from football season and prepare for March Madness, incorporating feta into your menu guarantees dishes that stand out and delight your guests.
Cheese, especially feta, isn’t just about flavor—it represents a cornerstone of Wisconsin agriculture. As America’s Dairyland, Wisconsin leads the nation in cheese production, crafting over 600 varieties of world-class cheese. Alongside hardworking, dedicated dairy farmers, the state has perfected the art of cheesemaking, contributing to the local economy and earning international acclaim. When you choose Wisconsin cheese, you’re supporting a tradition built on craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability.
For events like game-day watch parties, cheese can easily elevate your menu. Think cheese-stuffed meatballs, cheesy dips or charcuterie boards featuring a mix of flavors and textures. Feta, in particular, pairs beautifully with buffalo sauce, roasted vegetables or tangy vinaigrettes, giving your dishes a crowd-pleasing edge. Whether celebrating a touchdown or a buzzer-beater, Wisconsin cheese ensures your meals are the real MVPs.
So, as you plan your next gathering, make feta and other Wisconsin cheeses the stars of your spread. They’re more than ingredients—they’re a celebration of flavor and a nod to Wisconsin’s dairy excellence.
Recipe and article by Wisconsin Cheese. Photo provided by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 large egg white
- 1 ounce Weyauwega Star Dairy Parmesan cheese grated (1/3 cup)
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper
- 1 pound ground chicken breast extra lean, 98% fat-free
- 1 chunk 8 ounces Odyssey® Traditional Feta cheese
- 1 cup Buffalo wing sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter cubed
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F. Place a greased wire rack on an aluminum foil-lined rimmed baking sheet; set aside.
- Combine the egg white, parmesan, bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Crumble chicken over parmesan mixture; mix just until combined. Divide chicken mixture into 16 portions; shape into balls.
- Cut feta into 16 cubes, about 1/2-inch each. Press a feta cube into the center of each ball; seal chicken mixture around cheese. Roll into balls. Place on prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a thermometer inserted into meatballs reads 165°F.
- Meanwhile, warm wing sauce and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until butter is melted, stirring occasionally. Add meatballs; toss to coat. Serve immediately, or transfer to a 3-quart slow cooker. Keep warm on low.
