Description
Broccoli Cheese Balls
Ingredients
2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
1 large egg, beaten
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
Steam the Broccoli:
Cook broccoli florets in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. Drain and finely chop.
Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Form the Balls:
Scoop small portions of the mixture and shape into balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs for an even coating.
Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry Until Golden:
Fry the balls in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve and Enjoy:
Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or spicy aioli!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect broccoli cheese balls every time. First, ensure your broccoli is steamed until just tender but not mushy; this prevents a soggy mixture. After draining, press the chopped broccoli in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture—this is crucial for binding. When mixing, combine all dry ingredients before adding the beaten egg to ensure even distribution. For shaping, use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon to create uniform balls, compacting the mixture firmly in your palms. Before frying, perform a test by frying one ball to check oil temperature and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them immediately as a hot appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a heartier meal, place them on a bed of mixed greens with a light lemon vinaigrette to create a warm salad. They also make a fantastic side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a party platter, skewer each ball with a toothpick for easy grabbing.
How-to Summary
Steam and finely chop broccoli, then thoroughly combine it with cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Form the mixture into small, compact balls, roll in extra breadcrumbs, and deep-fry in 350°F oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with dips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes. Arrange the breaded balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in the mixture and for coating.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time? Absolutely. The uncooked mixture can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and frying.
Why are my balls falling apart during frying? This is usually due to excess moisture. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained and pressed. Adding an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs can also help bind the mixture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Overcooking the broccoli, which makes the mixture watery. Not squeezing out the excess water, leading to poor binding. Using cheese that isn’t finely shredded, causing uneven melting. Frying in oil that isn’t hot enough, resulting in greasy, oily balls. Overcrowding the skillet, which lowers the oil temperature and prevents even cooking and browning.
Conclusion
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfectly blending nutritious broccoli with indulgent, melty cheese in a crispy package. They are surprisingly simple to make and open to countless variations, from baking to adding different herbs and cheeses. Whether for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a fun side dish, this recipe delivers on flavor and texture every time. Give them a try and watch them disappear!