Ah, Broccoli Cheese Balls—crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. 🥦🧀
Here’s a full recipe:
Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
(Makes 12–15 balls)
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, chopped and cooked
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp paprika or chili powder (optional for flavor)
- Oil for frying (or baking spray for oven version)
Instructions
1. Prep broccoli
- Steam or boil broccoli until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Drain well and mash or finely chop.
2. Mix ingredients
- In a bowl, combine broccoli, cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix until well combined; the mixture should hold together.
3. Form balls
- Take small portions and roll into 1–2 inch balls.
- Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
4. Cook
Frying method:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry broccoli balls 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels.
Baking method (healthier):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place balls on a greased or lined baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with oil and bake 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden.
5. Serve
- Serve hot with ranch dressing, marinara, or a spicy dip.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Dry the broccoli well; excess moisture makes them fall apart.
- Add finely chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Can make ahead and freeze before cooking—bake or fry from frozen.
💡 Fun twist: Make cheesy bacon broccoli balls by adding 2–3 tbsp cooked, crumbled bacon into the mixture.
If you want, I can make a 30-minute version of broccoli cheese balls that’s oven-baked and less oily for a quick snack or party appetizer.
Do you want me to do that?
