APPETIZERS

Delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls That Will Amaze You

by Fatima Garcia

•

22 de January de 2026

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Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful snack that combines fresh ingredients and cheesy goodness. These little bites pack a punch of flavor and are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer or a fun snack for kids. The combination of broccoli and cheese creates a satisfying treat that will wow your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into how to make these cheesy delights!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Balls

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are not only delicious, but they also offer numerous benefits. First, they are an excellent way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters, making them a hit with kids. Additionally, they can be easily customized into broccoli cheese bites or broccoli cheese fritters depending on your preference. They are perfect as broccoli cheese appetizers for parties and are vegetarian-friendly, fitting into a variety of diets. Moreover, you can prepare them ahead of time, making them great for meal prep. The crispy exterior and cheesy interior create a delightful texture that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Gather these items:

1.5 cups fresh broccoli florets (steaming softens them for easy mixing)
1 cup shredded Colby cheese (adds a creamy texture that melts beautifully)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (provides a sharp, savory flavor that complements the broccoli)
4 ounces Velveeta (cut into small chunks ensuring gooey cheese goodness)
0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adds a hint of heat to balance the cheesy richness)
2.25 cups Panko crumbs (divided for extra crispy coating)
1 large Egg (lightly beaten helps bind all the ingredients)
0.5 cup all-purpose flour (ensures the broccoli balls have a nice crust when fried)
Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls Step-by-Step

Step 1: Steam the broccoli until slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes. Allow it to cool down completely.
Step 2: Chop the cooled broccoli into small pieces, ideally 1/4-inch or less, and place in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Mix in the cheeses, crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup of Panko crumbs, and the beaten egg. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Shape the mixture into balls, using a rounded tablespoon for each, aiming for 12-14 bites.
Step 5: Refrigerate the formed balls on a plate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare your breading stations: place flour in one bowl, beat eggs with water in another, and keep remaining Panko crumbs in a third bowl.
Step 7: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot until it reaches 375°F.
Step 8: Coat each broccoli ball in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, then roll it in Panko crumbs.
Step 9: Fry around 4 balls at a time in the hot oil, cooking until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes each.
Step 10: Drain the fried balls on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Balls

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
Chill the balls before frying to help them hold their shape.
For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls

These cheesy delights are great served warm with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. They can be presented as broccoli cheese poppers at your next gathering or as a healthy snack for kids. Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal or serve them as a side dish with your favorite main course.

How to Store and Reheat Broccoli Cheese Balls

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use an air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness. These broccoli cheese balls for meal prep make it convenient to have a healthy snack ready at any time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Balls

What’s the secret to perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls?

The key to perfect broccoli cheese nuggets lies in the mixing process. Ensure that the broccoli is finely chopped so that the flavors combine well. Additionally, chilling the balls before frying helps them maintain their shape and texture.

Can I make 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. This makes them an excellent option for easy broccoli cheese bites for kids or last-minute snacks.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Common mistakes include overcooking the broccoli or not chilling the balls before frying. Ensure the broccoli is steamed but still firm, and always chill the balls to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.

Variations of Broccoli Cheese Balls You Can Try

There are plenty of ways to mix things up! Try baked broccoli cheese balls for a healthier version, or add different spices to suit your taste. For a twist, use broccoli cheese balls with cream cheese for a creamy texture. You can also create air fryer broccoli cheese balls for a lighter option that’s just as crispy!

For more delicious recipes, check out our vegetarian appetizers or learn how to make easy snacks for kids. You can also explore meal prep ideas for healthy eating!