Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls are golden-fried bites loaded with fresh broccoli and a trio of melted cheeses. Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they are perfect snacks or party appetizers that are both crowd-pleasing and easy to customize. These delightful bites blend the goodness of broccoli with the indulgence of cheese, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a tasty snack, these crispy treats will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

There are endless reasons to love these Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls. First, they make for a delightful appetizer that can be served during any occasion. Second, they are a great way to sneak in some vegetables, making them perfect for kids who might be reluctant to eat their greens. Third, these cheesy bites can be customized with your choice of spices or additional ingredients, allowing you to create your unique version. Fourth, they can easily be made ahead of time and frozen for a quick snack. Fifth, these bites fit well into a vegetarian diet, ensuring everyone can enjoy them. Lastly, they pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite. You can also explore recipes for Crunchy Broccoli Cheese Bites or Crispy Broccoli Cheese Fritters for more options!

Ingredients for Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

Gather these items:

1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded Colby cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 ounces Velveeta, cut into small chunks
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 breading)
Vegetable or canola oil (for deep frying)

How to Make Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls Step-by-Step

Step 1: Steam broccoli florets for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened. Cool completely.
Step 2: Finely chop broccoli and transfer to a large bowl.
Step 3: Add Colby, cheddar, Velveeta, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko, and 1 beaten egg. Mix well.
Step 4: Shape mixture into balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and refrigerate for 30+ minutes.
Step 5: Set up breading station: flour, beaten eggs, and remaining Panko.
Step 6: Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pot to 375°F.
Step 7: Dredge each ball in flour, dip in egg, and roll in Panko.
Step 8: Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

Keep these in mind:

Customize with your favorite cheeses for different flavor profiles.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
For a healthier version, consider making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls instead of frying.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

These delicious bites can be served in many ways. Pair them with a zesty marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip for added flavor. They also work well as part of a larger spread at parties, alongside other easy broccoli cheese appetizer ideas. You can also serve them with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

To store your Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them before frying. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. This method ensures that you can have quick and tasty snacks ready whenever you need!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls?

The secret lies in ensuring your broccoli is finely chopped and mixed well with the cheese to achieve that gooey interior. Also, chilling the balls before frying helps maintain their shape and promotes even cooking.

Can I make Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry or bake. They can also be frozen for later use.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying. Also, don’t overcrowd the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy bites. Follow the recipe precisely for the best results.

Variations of Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls You Can Try

There are plenty of ways to mix things up! Consider adding other vegetables to the mix, like carrots or bell peppers, for added nutrition. For a spicy kick, try using pepper jack cheese or adding jalapeños. You can also experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme to create your unique flavor profile. For those following a gluten-free diet, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Panko.

Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls: 7 Irresistible Bites

Author: basmer
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 20 balls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls are golden-fried bites loaded with fresh broccoli and a trio of melted cheeses. Crunchy on the outside, gooey on the inside, they’re perfect snacks or party appetizers that are both crowd-pleasing and easy to customize.

Instructions

Steam broccoli florets for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened. Cool completely.
Finely chop broccoli and transfer to a large bowl.
Add Colby, cheddar, Velveeta, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko, and 1 beaten egg. Mix well.
Shape mixture into balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and refrigerate for 30+ minutes.
Set up breading station: flour, beaten eggs, and remaining Panko.
Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pot to 375°F.
Dredge each ball in flour, dip in egg, and roll in Panko.
Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate. Serve hot.