Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside with 3 kinds of gooey melted cheese and fresh broccoli on the inside. Make a great appetizer!
Ingredients
1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded Colby cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 ounces Velveeta, cut into small chunks
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 1/4 cups Panko crumbs, divided
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, lightly beaten
Vegetable or Canola oil
Instructions
Steam broccoli until slightly softened. Let cool.
Finely chop broccoli. You want the pieces to be 1/4-inch or less. Place in a large bowl.
Add cheese, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko crumbs, and 1 egg to bowl with broccoli. Stir well.
Use your hands to shape mixture into balls using about a rounded tablespoon for each ball. You should get 12-14.
Place balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Place flour in a bowl.
Place the 2 lightly beaten eggs in a second bowl and mix in 1 tablespoon water.
Place remaining 2 cups Panko crumbs in a third bowl.
Pour about 2 inches of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot. Heat oil to 375 degrees. For best results use a thermometer.
Remove broccoli balls from refrigerator, coat in flour, dip in egg mixture, and then coat in Panko crumbs.
Fry about 4 balls at a time cooking until golden brown on all sides.
Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Related:
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Breasts
- Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
FAQs
Can I prepare the Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli mixture and shape the balls in advance. After shaping them, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before frying. If you want to prepare even further ahead, you can freeze the shaped balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator before coating and frying.
Can I substitute or omit any of the cheeses in the recipe?
While the combination of Colby, cheddar, and Velveeta creates a deliciously gooey texture, you can experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary. If you choose to omit one of the cheeses, consider adjusting the quantities to maintain the desired consistency of the mixture.
Can I bake the Broccoli Cheese Balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the broccoli cheese balls for a slightly healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they become golden brown, turning them halfway through the baking time for even crispiness. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.