Broccoli cheese balls are a delicious and crispy snack that combines the goodness of fresh broccoli with gooey, melted cheese. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, appetizers, or even as a tasty side dish. Packed with flavor, they offer a perfect balance between crunchy exteriors and cheesy, soft interiors. Whether baked or fried, these cheese balls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part is that they are easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making them a go-to snack for any occasion. If you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy broccoli, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (finely chopped)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying (if deep frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli – Boil water in a pan and add the finely chopped broccoli florets. Blanch them for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to retain their green color. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, black pepper, chili flakes, salt, dried oregano, and onion powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Bind the Mixture – Add the beaten eggs and all-purpose flour to the mixture. Stir thoroughly until the mixture starts to hold together. If it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to reach the right consistency.
- Shape the Balls – Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls using your hands. Ensure they are compact so they don’t break apart while cooking.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs – Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to give it a crispy outer coating. This step ensures a golden and crunchy texture after frying or baking.
- Choose Your Cooking Method
- Deep Frying – Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the cheese balls and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Baking Option – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray or brush with a little oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn crispy and golden.
- Air Frying Option – Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket, place the cheese balls inside, and air fry for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve Hot – Once cooked, transfer the broccoli cheese balls to a serving plate. Serve hot with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Enjoy – Bite into the crispy outer layer and experience the cheesy, flavorful interior filled with the goodness of broccoli. Perfect for snacking or as a side dish to complement any meal.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the broccoli is finely chopped to help the mixture hold together better.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more egg or cheese to bind it.
- For an extra crispy coating, dip the balls in beaten egg before rolling them in breadcrumbs.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
- Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.