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Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Broccoli Cheese Balls

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Broccoli Cheese Balls


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  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Broccoli Cheese Balls are golden, bite-sized appetizers featuring steamed and mashed broccoli combined with sharp cheddar and Parmesan, encased in a crunchy panko coating. These crowd-pleasing bites are perfect for entertaining, game day snacking, or meal prep, and pair beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and mashed with a fork (200g)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 100g
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 50g, plus 1/2 cup (50g) for crust coating
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 60g
  • 2 large eggs, 1 for mixture, 1 beaten for coating
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 60g
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 60g
  • As needed oil, for deep frying
  • Optional toppings, ranch dip, sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, fresh chives, or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broccoli Base
  2. 1. Steam broccoli florets until tender, approximately 5 to 7 minutes, then mash thoroughly with a fork until broken down into small pieces.
  3. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, 1 large egg, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  4. 3. Mix well until the ingredients bind together, adding a little more breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet.
  5. 4. Scoop out small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls, each about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
  6. Create the Parmesan Crust Coating
  7. 1. Place flour in a shallow bowl and roll each broccoli ball through it until lightly coated on all sides.
  8. 2. Dip each floured ball into the beaten egg, letting excess drip back into the bowl.
  9. 3. In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, then roll each ball in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
  10. Fry to Golden Perfection
  11. 1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it reaches approximately 340°F or 170°C, checking with a thermometer for accuracy.
  12. 2. Carefully place broccoli cheese balls into the hot oil in small batches, frying for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
  13. 3. Remove the balls with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes