Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Balls

Description

Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Balls are golden on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside. Made with finely chopped broccoli, melted cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating, these bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party food. When pulled apart, the cheese stretches beautifully while the broccoli adds flavor and balance.

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⏱ Time & Yield

• Prep time: 25 minutes

• Chilling time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 8–10 minutes

• Total time: ~55 minutes

• Yield: 14–16 balls

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🧾 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped

• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp dried oregano or parsley

For Coating

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)

• 1 egg, beaten

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (enough for deep or shallow frying)

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🔪 Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add broccoli and blanch for 2 minutes.

• Drain immediately and transfer to ice water.

• Drain well and squeeze out excess moisture.

• Finely chop.

Removing moisture is essential to prevent soggy balls.

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🥣 Mixing the Filling

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add:

• Chopped broccoli

• Mozzarella and cheddar cheese

• Egg

• Breadcrumbs

• Flour

• Garlic

• Salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs

Mix until a thick, moldable mixture forms.

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🟢 Shaping

Step 3: Form the Balls

• Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mixture.

• Roll into compact balls.

• Place on a tray and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

Chilling helps them hold shape while frying.

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🍳 Coating & Cooking

Step 4: Bread the Balls

• Dip each ball into beaten egg.

• Roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 5: Fry

• Heat oil to 170–175°C / 340–350°F.

• Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes, turning until golden brown.

• Remove and drain on paper towels.

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🔁 Alternative Cooking Methods

Air Fryer

• Spray lightly with oil.

• Cook at 190°C / 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Oven

• Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 15–18 minutes, turning once.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with marinara sauce, garlic mayo, or ranch

• Best eaten immediately for maximum cheese pull

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🔥 Pro Tips

• Use low-moisture mozzarella for better melt

• Do not overfill with cheese or balls may burst

• If mixture feels loose, add 1–2 tbsp breadcrumbs

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🧮 Estimated Nutrition (Per Ball)

• Calories: ~95 kcal

• Protein: ~5 g

• Fat: ~6 g

• Carbs: ~7 g