Description
Crispy, golden-brown Broccoli Cheese Balls packed with tender broccoli, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or boil broccoli florets until tender-crisp (8-10 minutes steaming, 5-7 minutes boiling). Immediately transfer to ice water to cool. Drain well and chop into very small pieces (or pulse in a food processor, being careful not to puree).
- Make the Cheese Ball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, beaten eggs, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Mix Thoroughly: Mix all ingredients until evenly distributed. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs (1 tbsp at a time). If too dry, add milk (1 tsp at a time).
- (Optional) Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes for easier handling.
- Form the Balls: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out portions of the mixture (about 1-inch balls) and gently roll between your palms to form smooth balls. Place on the baking sheet.
- Fry the Balls: Pour 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pot and heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the broccoli cheese balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
- Cook to Golden Brown: Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through cooking.
- Remove from Oil: Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauces (ranch, marinara, honey mustard, aioli).
Notes
- Don’t overcook the broccoli.
- Chop the broccoli finely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C).
- Drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Add other spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper.
- Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Gruyere, or provolone.
- Baking Option: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes