Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect appetizer for any gathering or casual snack. These delightful bites are crispy on the outside while bursting with gooey cheese and fresh broccoli on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy movie night, or looking for a tasty way to sneak in some veggies, Broccoli Cheese Balls deliver flavor and satisfaction in every bite. Their unique combination of Colby, cheddar, and Velveeta ensures a cheesy experience that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these Broccoli Cheese Balls in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of cheeses and subtle heat from red pepper flakes offers a delicious taste sensation.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they also make a great side dish for any meal.
• Kid-Friendly: Children love the cheesy goodness, making it easier to encourage them to eat their greens.
• Make Ahead: These can be prepared in advance and fried just before serving for maximum freshness.

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Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls, having the right tools can make all the difference. Gather your equipment before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking thermometer
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for frying, it maintains consistent heat for perfect cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; larger sizes help prevent spills.
• Cooking thermometer: Ensures oil is at the right temperature for frying, preventing soggy balls.

Ingredients

Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside with 3 kinds of gooey melted cheese and fresh broccoli on the inside. Make a great appetizer!

For the Broccoli

• 1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces Velveeta, cut into small chunks

For Coating

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 1/4 cups Panko crumbs (divided)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs (lightly beaten)

For Frying

• Vegetable or Canola oil

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Steam broccoli until slightly softened. Let cool.
2. Finely chop broccoli into pieces that are 1/4-inch or less. Place in a large bowl.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

1. Add cheese varieties, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko crumbs, and 1 egg to the bowl with chopped broccoli.
2. Stir well until combined.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

1. Use your hands to shape the mixture into balls using about a rounded tablespoon for each ball.
2. You should get around 12-14 balls.

Step 4: Chill Before Frying

1. Place shaped balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5: Set Up Breading Stations

1. Place flour in one bowl.
2. In another bowl, mix two lightly beaten eggs with 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Place remaining Panko crumbs in a third bowl.

Step 6: Heat Oil

Pour about 2 inches of oil into your Dutch oven or heavy pot and heat it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit—using a thermometer is recommended for best results.

Step 7: Coat and Fry

1. Remove broccoli balls from refrigerator.
2. Coat each ball in flour first, then dip in egg mixture, followed by coating in Panko crumbs.
3. Fry about four balls at a time until golden brown on all sides.

Step 8: Drain and Serve

Drain fried balls on a paper towel-lined plate before serving warm.

Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Broccoli Cheese Balls as an irresistible appetizer!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the cheese balls.
• Marinara Sauce: The tangy flavor of marinara adds a nice contrast to the cheesy goodness.
• Honey Mustard: This sweet and savory dip adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the broccoli.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the cheese balls on a bed of fresh greens for a colorful presentation.
• Spinach and Arugula: These peppery greens add freshness and balance to the richness of the cheese balls.

As Part of a Platter

• Appetizer Platter: Include your broccoli cheese balls on a platter with other finger foods like veggie sticks, crackers, and cheeses.
• Party Snack Board: Create a fun snack board with assorted dips, fruits, and nuts for guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

To make sure your Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets will provide the best texture and flavor compared to frozen.
• Chill Before Frying: Refrigerating your formed balls helps keep their shape during frying.
• Control Oil Temperature: Maintaining oil at 375 degrees ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry only a few at a time to allow even cooking and browning.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before forming balls; feel free to add more spices or herbs as desired.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Pairing side dishes with your Broccoli Cheese Balls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is always a hit and works well with cheesy flavors.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the fried cheese balls.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw complements the soft interiors of the cheese balls nicely.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for an indulgent side that pairs well with cheesy snacks.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf brings healthy grains into the mix, balancing out the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheese Balls can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the refrigeration step: Failing to chill the balls before frying can cause them to fall apart. Always refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Not chopping broccoli finely enough: Large pieces of broccoli can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for pieces that are 1/4-inch or smaller.
• Using the wrong oil: Some oils smoke at high temperatures, which is not ideal for frying. Use vegetable or canola oil for best results.
• Overcrowding the pot: Frying too many balls at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy balls. Fry in small batches instead.
• Neglecting proper coating: Skipping flour or egg before adding Panko can lead to a less crispy texture. Make sure to coat each ball thoroughly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Freeze uncooked balls on a baking sheet for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but note that this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Broccoli Cheese Balls, you’re not alone! Here are some FAQs answered.

Can I use frozen broccoli for Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure it’s thawed and drained well before chopping.

How do I make gluten-free Broccoli Cheese Balls?

To make gluten-free versions, substitute regular flour and Panko with gluten-free alternatives.

What dipping sauces pair well with Broccoli Cheese Balls?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli!

Can I add extra ingredients to my Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, diced onions, or other favorite cheeses for customization.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cheese Balls are an irresistible appetizer perfect for any gathering. Their crispy exterior and cheesy interior provide a delightful experience that everyone will love. You can easily customize these balls by adding your favorite ingredients or spices. Give them a try today!