Broccoli Cheese Balls

These cheesy broccoli bites are a delightful twist on traditional appetizers, offering a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch in every bite. As someone who enjoys experimenting with different flavors and textures, I find this recipe to be both versatile and delicious. Whether served as a party snack or a tasty side dish, these cheesy broccoli bites are sure to be a hit with friends and family.

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:

1. Steam the broccoli until slightly softened, then let it cool before finely chopping it into pieces no larger than 1/4-inch. Place the chopped broccoli in a large bowl.
2. Add the Colby cheese, cheddar cheese, Velveeta chunks, crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko crumbs, and 1 lightly beaten egg to the bowl with the broccoli. Mix well to combine.
3. Shape the mixture into balls using about a rounded tablespoon for each ball. You should have approximately 12-14 balls. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Prepare three bowls for coating the broccoli balls: one with flour, one with the 2 lightly beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon of water, and one with the remaining 2 cups of Panko crumbs.
5. Heat vegetable or Canola oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, using a thermometer for accuracy.
6. Remove the broccoli balls from the refrigerator and, working in batches, coat each ball in flour, dip it in the egg mixture, and then coat it in Panko crumbs.
7. Fry about 4 balls at a time, cooking until golden brown on all sides. This should take approximately 2-3 minutes per batch.
8. Drain the fried broccoli balls on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.

Enjoy these cheesy broccoli bites as a delicious appetizer or side dish!

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before chopping and proceeding with the recipe.
2. Can I use different types of cheese?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences.
3. Can I bake these broccoli bites instead of frying them?
   • While frying gives these bites a crispy texture, you can try baking them in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Can I make these ahead of time and reheat them?
   • Yes, you can make the broccoli balls ahead of time and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Tips:

1. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the broccoli balls from absorbing excess oil and becoming greasy.
2. For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or diced onions into the broccoli mixture before shaping into balls.
3. To make these bites gluten-free, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the Panko crumbs and gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour.
4. Serve the cheesy broccoli bites with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard, for an extra burst of flavor.

With these helpful tips and answers to common questions, you’re ready to create these irresistible cheesy broccoli bites with ease and confidence!

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