Broccoli Cheese Balls

Introduction

When it comes to transforming vegetables into something irresistibly delicious, these Broccoli Cheese Balls take the cake! Recently, I made a batch for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “cheesy goodness.” The crispy exterior gives way to a gooey, cheesy center that’s packed with vibrant broccoli flavor. Not only did the kids love them, but the adults couldn’t resist sneaking a few, either. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household, proving that you can make healthy ingredients fun and enjoyable for everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ heaping cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 oz Velveeta, cut into small chunks
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 ¼ cups Panko crumbs, divided
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 additional eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp water
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Steam the Broccoli:
Steam the broccoli florets until slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool before finely chopping into pieces about ¼-inch or smaller.

2. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, Colby cheese, cheddar cheese, Velveeta, crushed red pepper flakes, ¼ cup of Panko crumbs, and 1 beaten egg. Mix well until fully incorporated.

3. Shape the Balls:
Using about a rounded tablespoon of the mixture for each ball, shape it by hand. You should end up with approximately 12-14 balls. Place the formed balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.

4. Prepare Coating:
Set up three bowls for coating the balls: add flour to the first bowl, mix the 2 lightly beaten eggs with 1 tablespoon of water in the second bowl, and place the remaining 2 cups of Panko crumbs in the third bowl.

5. Coat the Balls:
Remove the broccoli balls from the refrigerator. Coat each ball in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in Panko crumbs until evenly coated.

6. Fry the Balls:
Pour about 2 inches of oil into a Dutch oven or heavy pot and heat it to 375°F (190°C). Fry about 4 balls at a time, cooking until they are golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the fried balls and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Enjoy these crispy, gooey, and cheesy broccoli balls as a tasty appetizer!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12-14 balls
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150 calories per ball

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

To enjoy these Broccoli Cheese Balls to the fullest, consider the following serving suggestions:

• Serve hot with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for an extra pop of color.
• Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Add to a charcuterie board for a fun appetizer spread.
• Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as spicy aioli or honey mustard.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets give the best flavor and texture, but frozen broccoli can also work if you thaw and drain it well.
2. Let Them Chill: Refrigerating the balls before frying helps them maintain their shape during cooking.
3. Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 375°F for even cooking. If it’s too hot, the outside may burn while the inside remains uncooked.
4. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preferences; mozzarella or pepper jack can add a different flavor profile.
5. Use a Deep Fry Thermometer: This will help you avoid burning the oil and ensure even cooking for all batches.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Substitute other cheese varieties like mozzarella or feta for a different taste.
• Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown for a healthier option.
• Meat Add-in: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon or sausage for a meaty twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Broccoli Cheese Balls can be enjoyed in various ways:

• As a fun appetizer for parties or game days.
• Served alongside a hearty soup for a comforting meal.
• Added to a lunchbox for kids as a tasty treat.
• Paired with a selection of dips for a party platter.
• Served at brunch with a side of eggs and toast.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Uncooked broccoli balls can be frozen on a baking sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Leftover cooked broccoli balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before chopping.

Q2: How do I make the balls spicier?
A: You can add more crushed red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños in the mixture.

Q3: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q4: What can I use as a dipping sauce?
A: Marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or spicy aioli all work well as dipping sauces.

Q5: How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
A: Use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches 375°F (190°C) for optimal frying.

Q6: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them for up to 30 minutes before frying.

Q7: How long do leftovers last?
A: Cooked broccoli cheese balls can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q8: What type of cheese works best?
A: Colby and cheddar are great, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.

Q9: How can I keep them crispy after frying?
A: Drain them on paper towels and avoid stacking them until they cool slightly.

Q10: Can I add meat to the mixture?
A: Yes, cooked bacon or sausage can be added for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful way to enjoy vegetables while indulging in gooey, cheesy goodness. Perfect as an appetizer or a fun snack, they bring a burst of flavor and texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a family-friendly dish, or simply craving something tasty, this recipe is sure to impress. Try making a batch, and you might find yourself reaching for seconds—or thirds! Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness, and watch them disappear in no time.

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