Simple 3-Ingredient Pan-Fried Halloumi

3-Ingredient Pan-Fried Halloumi

This quick pan-fried halloumi makes an excellent Mediterranean-style snack or an elevated addition to salads and bowls. Because halloumi has a naturally high melting point, it doesn’t collapse when heated. Instead, it develops a crisp, salty crust while remaining tender and slightly squeaky inside. In just minutes, a simple block of cheese turns into something truly special.

Ingredients

• Halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch pieces — 8 oz (225 g)
• Olive oil or butter — 1 tablespoon
• Dried oregano or fresh thyme (optional) — ½ teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese
Remove the halloumi from its package and thoroughly pat each slice dry with paper towels.

Why this helps: Removing excess moisture allows the cheese to brown properly and reduces splattering during cooking.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat the olive oil or butter in a nonstick pan over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Butter will add a deeper, nuttier flavor if used.

Step 3: Cook the Halloumi
Place the slices in the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until a golden crust forms and the edges are crisp.

Step 4: Add the Herbs
If using herbs, sprinkle them over the cheese immediately after flipping. The heat from the pan will gently bloom their flavor without scorching.

Step 5: Serve Hot
Transfer the halloumi to a serving plate and enjoy right away. It’s best served warm, when the center is soft and the signature “squeak” is at its peak.