Broccoli Cheese Balls

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Imagine a world where vegetables are the star of the show, delighting both the eyes and the taste buds. Enter Broccoli Cheese Balls, a dish that transforms the humble broccoli into a scrumptious, cheesy delight. These savory bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re planning a meat-free meal or a festive gathering. Made with either fresh or frozen broccoli, these cheese balls are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent. The crispy exterior gives way to a gooey, cheesy interior that’s simply irresistible. It’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your diet, and its simplicity makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute party snacks.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Steamer
• Large bowl
• Three small bowls
• Plate
• Refrigerator
• Dutch oven or heavy saucepan
• Thermometer
• Paper towels

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 oz. Velveeta, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs, divided
• 1 lightly beaten egg
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Steam the broccoli until slightly softened, then allow it to cool. Finely chop the broccoli into pieces no larger than 1/4 inch.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, Colby cheese, cheddar cheese, Velveeta, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs, and 1 egg. Stir well to combine.
3. Using your hands, form the mixture into balls, using about 1 tablespoon for each ball. You should be able to make 12-14 balls.
4. Place the balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Prepare three small bowls: one with flour, another with the remaining eggs mixed with a tablespoon of water, and the last with the remaining 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs.
6. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy saucepan to 375°F. Use a thermometer for best results.
7. Remove the broccoli balls from the fridge. Coat each ball in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.
8. Fry about 4 balls at a time until golden brown on all sides. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Tips for Success

To ensure your broccoli cheese balls turn out perfectly, make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. This will help achieve a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil. Additionally, refrigerating the balls before frying helps them hold their shape better.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a spicy kick, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations or add herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Broccoli Cheese Balls are not only tasty but also pack a nutritional punch, offering a good source of calcium and vitamin C thanks to the cheese and broccoli.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

Can I bake these instead of frying? Absolutely! Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy snack or side dish that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you’ve added. Enjoy!

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