Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Recipe for a Healthy Snack

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful and nutritious snack that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh broccoli and the creamy goodness of cheese. As someone who has always appreciated the art of cooking, I find these little bites to be a perfect blend of taste and texture. Originating from the need to make vegetables more appealing, these cheesy morsels have become a beloved dish in many households, especially among families looking to sneak in some greens for their kids.

What I love most about Broccoli Cheese Balls is their versatility; they can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course when paired with a salad. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy center that is simply irresistible. Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly convenient to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Join me as we explore how to make these scrumptious Broccoli Cheese Balls that everyone will adore!

Ingredients:

• 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 bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Broccoli

1. Start by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. This ensures that any dirt or pesticides are removed. 2. Once clean, chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces. You want them small enough to mix well with the other ingredients but not so small that they lose their texture. 3. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the chopped broccoli and blanch for about 2-3 minutes. This will help to soften the broccoli slightly while keeping its vibrant green color. 4. After blanching, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then drain and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial to avoid soggy cheese balls.

Preparing the Mixture

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched and dried broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. 6. Next, add the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. 7. Crack the two large eggs into the mixture. The eggs will act as a binding agent, helping to hold the cheese balls together. Use a fork or your hands to mix until the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is sticky.

Shaping the Cheese Balls

8. Now it’s time to shape the mixture into balls. I like to use a cookie scoop or my hands for this. Take a small amount of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball. 9. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent them from sticking and make cleanup easier. Continue until all the mixture is shaped into balls. You should have around 15-20 balls, depending on the size you make them.

Cooking the Cheese Balls

10. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan but not so much that the balls are submerged. 11. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the broccoli cheese balls to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches. 12. Cook the cheese balls for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to gently flip them over to ensure even cooking. 13. Once they are cooked, transfer the cheese balls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Assembling and Serving

14. While the cheese balls are still warm, sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. 15. Serve the broccoli cheese balls with your favorite dipping sauce. I love a tangy ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo, but you can use whatever you prefer. 16. Enjoy these delicious bites as an appetizer, snack, or even as a side dish. They are perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.

Storage Tips

17. If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. 18. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-pan crunch.

Variations and Add-Ins

19. Feel free to customize your broccoli cheese balls! You can add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor, or even some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

Conclusion:

In summary, these Broccoli Cheese Balls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to add a delicious and nutritious twist to their snack repertoire. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also offer a fantastic way to sneak in some greens, making them perfect for both kids and adults alike. The combination of crispy exteriors and gooey cheese centers creates a delightful texture that is sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these delightful bites with a zesty dipping sauce, such as ranch or a spicy aioli, to elevate the flavor even further. You can also experiment with variations by adding different cheeses, spices, or even incorporating other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made your own batch of Broccoli Cheese Balls, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creations. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together!

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