Broccoli Cheese Balls Crisp (Print Version)
Cheesy, golden broccoli balls with a crisp coating and rich cheddar flavor for savory snacking.
# Ingredients:
→ Broccoli Preparation
01 -
1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets
→ Cheeses
02 -
1 cup shredded Colby cheese
03 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 -
4 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into small chunks
→ Seasoning
05 -
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
→ Binding and Coating
06 -
2 1/4 cups Panko bread crumbs, divided
07 -
1 egg, lightly beaten
08 -
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
09 -
2 eggs, lightly beaten
→ Cooking Oil
10 -
Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
# Steps:
01 -
Steam the broccoli florets until slightly softened, then allow them to cool completely.
02 -
Finely chop the cooled broccoli into pieces approximately 1/4-inch or smaller and place in a large mixing bowl.
03 -
Add Colby cheese, cheddar cheese, Velveeta cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko crumbs, and 1 lightly beaten egg to the broccoli. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
04 -
Shape the mixture by hand into balls using about a rounded tablespoon of mixture for each. Expect about 12 to 14 balls.
05 -
Place the formed balls onto a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm.
06 -
Set up three bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, a second with 2 lightly beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon water, and a third with the remaining 2 cups Panko crumbs.
07 -
Pour approximately 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil into a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Heat oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, using a thermometer to monitor temperature.
08 -
Remove the chilled balls from the refrigerator. Coat each in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, followed by an even coating of Panko crumbs.
09 -
Fry about 4 balls at a time in hot oil, turning to achieve an even golden brown color on all sides.
10 -
Transfer fried cheese balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot.
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure the broccoli is finely chopped for a consistent texture that binds well with the cheese.
02 -
For best results, maintain oil temperature during frying; overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy cheese balls.