Improve your appetizer game by combining wholesome broccoli and creamy cheese. Broccoli Cheese Balls combine the earthy flavor of broccoli with the comforting richness of melted cheese to create the ideal bite-sized treat. With their irresistible combination of textures and flavors, these crispy-coated gems are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your snack cravings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
For the Coating:
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Broccoli Prep: Steam the broccoli florets until they’re tender. Finely chop them once they’ve cooled down.
2. Cheesy Bliss: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
3. Shaping the Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. You can adjust the size according to your preference.
4. Coating Process: Prepare a coating station with separate bowls for bread crumbs, all-purpose flour, and beaten eggs.
5. Coating Magic: Dip each broccoli cheese ball first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the bread crumbs, ensuring they’re coated evenly. Gently press the bread crumbs onto the balls to make sure they adhere well.
6. Frying Symphony: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Carefully place the coated balls into the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Presentation and Enjoyment: Serve the Broccoli Cheese Balls while they’re still warm and crispy. You can serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a yogurt-based dip.
8. Flavorful Bites: Each bite of the Broccoli Cheese Balls offers a burst of cheesy goodness complemented by the subtle freshness of broccoli. The crispy exterior gives way to a creamy interior, making these bites a delightful treat for any occasion.
Conclusion: Broccoli Cheese Balls take the wholesome charm of broccoli and transform it into a crowd-pleasing appetizer that boasts the irresistible allure of melted cheese and crispy coating. Whether served at gatherings or enjoyed as a satisfying snack, these savory gems promise a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.