Broccoli cheese balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that can be made with fresh or frozen broccoli and a variety of cheeses. They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, and they are perfect for parties, game days, or snacks. You can also add some bacon, spices, or herbs to customize them to your taste. Here is how you can make them at home with a few simple steps.
Ingredients
To make about 12 to 14 broccoli cheese balls, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups of fresh broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup of shredded Colby cheese
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces of Velveeta cheese, cut into small chunks
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 1/4 cups of Panko bread crumbs, divided
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten, divided
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying
Instructions
Follow these instructions to make the broccoli cheese balls:
- In a large bowl, stir together the broccoli, Colby cheese, cheddar cheese, Velveeta cheese, 1/4 cup of Panko crumbs, red pepper flakes (if using), 1 egg, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Place the flour in a shallow bowl, the remaining 2 eggs in another shallow bowl with 1 tablespoon of water, and the remaining 2 cups of Panko crumbs in a third shallow bowl.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 375°F. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Coat the broccoli balls in flour, dip them in the egg mixture, and then roll them in the Panko crumbs. Fry them in batches of 4 or 5, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Drain them on paper towels and keep them warm in the oven until ready to serve.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make the best broccoli cheese balls:
- You can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before chopping and mixing it with the cheese.
- You can use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cream cheese, depending on your preference and availability.
- You can add some cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped ham, or shredded chicken to the broccoli and cheese mixture for some extra protein and flavor.
- You can also add some fresh or dried herbs, such as parsley, basil, or oregano, or some spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or cumin, to the broccoli and cheese mixture for some extra flavor and aroma.
- You can bake the broccoli cheese balls instead of frying them, if you prefer a lighter option. To do so, spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and place the coated broccoli balls on it. Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- You can serve the broccoli cheese balls with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, barbecue, or honey mustard.
Nutrition Facts
One serving of broccoli cheese balls (about 3 balls) has the following nutrition facts, according to RecipeTin Eats:
- Calories: 282 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 97 mg
- Sodium: 464 mg
- Potassium: 202 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Vitamin A: 605 IU
- Vitamin C: 20.6 mg
- Calcium: 341 mg
- Iron: 1.5 mg
Questions About Broccoli Cheese Balls
What are cheese broccoli balls?
Cheese broccoli balls are a tasty and easy appetizer that consists of cheese and broccoli mixed together and coated with bread crumbs. They are fried or baked until crispy and served with a dipping sauce.
How do you make cheese broccoli balls?
You need to steam and chop some broccoli, and mix it with shredded cheese, Velveeta cheese, and some seasonings. Then you shape the mixture into balls and coat them with flour, egg, and Panko crumbs. You can fry them in oil or bake them in the oven until golden and crisp.
What kind of cheese can you use for cheese broccoli balls?
You can use any kind of cheese that melts well, such as Colby, cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cream cheese. You can also use a combination of different cheeses to suit your taste.
What can you add to cheese broccoli balls for extra flavor?
You can add some cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped ham, or shredded chicken to the cheese and broccoli mixture for extra protein and flavor. You can also add some fresh or dried herbs, such as parsley, basil, or oregano, or some spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or cumin, to the cheese and broccoli mixture for extra flavor and aroma.
What kind of dipping sauce can you serve with cheese broccoli balls?
You can serve cheese broccoli balls with any kind of dipping sauce that you like, such as ranch, marinara, barbecue, or honey mustard. You can also make your own dipping sauce by mixing some mayonnaise, sour cream, and your favorite seasonings.
Conclusion
Broccoli cheese balls are a tasty and easy way to enjoy broccoli and cheese in a bite-sized form. They are made with a simple mixture of steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, Velveeta cheese, and some seasonings, and then coated with flour, egg, and Panko crumbs. They can be fried or baked until golden and crisp, and served with your favorite dipping sauce. They are perfect for parties, game days, or snacks, and they can be customized with different cheeses, meats, herbs, or spices. Broccoli cheese balls are a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies, and they are also a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin C. Try them today and enjoy a cheesy and crunchy treat!