Description
These crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls are a tasty and fun way to enjoy vegetables, featuring fresh broccoli, cheddar, and Parmesan. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they can be served with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water.
- Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and blanch the chopped broccoli for 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
- Add minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix until fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using a small cookie scoop or your hands, packing them tightly.
- Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the broccoli cheese balls to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them gently.
- Transfer cooked balls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Arrange the cooked broccoli cheese balls on a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cooked bacon bits.
- For a healthier option, bake the balls at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes