Description
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful and savory snack, perfect for appetizers or a side dish. They are crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, with a hint of broccoli flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Steam or boil the finely chopped broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Drain well and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.
- Roll each ball in the extra breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the broccoli cheese balls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the broccoli is very dry before mixing to prevent soggy balls.
- You can prepare the balls ahead of time and refrigerate them before frying.
- For a healthier option, you can bake these at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 balls
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg