Description
Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make healthy snack combining fresh broccoli, melted cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, and crispy breadcrumbs. These cheesy bites are blanched and pan-fried until golden and crunchy, perfect for serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli: Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water, then chop into small, bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and cooking.
- Blanch Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt, add the chopped broccoli, and blanch for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant green.
- Shock and Dry: Immediately transfer the blanched broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking; then drain and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs. Add minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix thoroughly.
- Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the mixture and combine until fully incorporated to help bind the mixture together.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using a small cookie scoop or your hands, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together well.
- Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot enough for frying.
- Fry Balls: Carefully add the broccoli cheese balls to the skillet without overcrowding, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy, turning gently with tongs.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked balls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Garnish and Serve: Arrange the broccoli cheese balls on a platter, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Make sure to thoroughly pat the broccoli dry after blanching to avoid soggy balls.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- These can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
- For a baked version, place balls on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
