Picture this—you’re at a party, surrounded by the laughter of friends and family, and someone hands you a golden, crispy bite of Broccoli Cheese Balls. As you take a bite, the warm, gooey cheese stretches between your fingers, while the crispy coating adds the perfect crunch. This isn’t just an appetizer; it’s a flavor-packed experience that makes every gathering more enjoyable.
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun snack, or simply trying to sneak more veggies into your meals, Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect solution. Packed with fresh broccoli, melty cheese, and crispy Panko breadcrumbs, these bite-sized delights are impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Cheesy – A crunchy exterior with a gooey, cheesy center makes every bite irresistible.
✔ Vegetable-Packed – A great way to enjoy the goodness of broccoli in a fun, bite-sized form.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and an easy process make this a stress-free appetizer.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve at parties, game nights, potlucks, or as a quick snack.
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Balls
Before you get started, gather these simple ingredients.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh broccoli florets | 1 ½ heaping cups |
| Shredded Colby cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Velveeta cheese (cut into chunks) | 4 oz |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | ½ tsp |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 2 ¼ cups (divided) |
| Egg (lightly beaten) | 1 |
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
| Eggs (for coating) | 2 (lightly beaten) |
| Vegetable or canola oil | For frying |
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls
1. Prepare the Broccoli
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
- Blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the broccoli and immediately plunge it into ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Once cooled, drain again and finely chop the broccoli.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Chopped broccoli
- Shredded Colby cheese
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chunks of Velveeta cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs
- Stir in 1 lightly beaten egg to bind the mixture together.
3. Form the Cheese Balls
- Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls (about golf ball-sized).
- Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and set aside.
4. Coat the Cheese Balls
- Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- One with all-purpose flour
- One with 2 lightly beaten eggs
- One with the remaining 1 ¼ cups of Panko breadcrumbs
- Roll each cheese ball in the flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it with Panko breadcrumbs.
- Ensure each ball is evenly coated for maximum crispiness.
5. Fry to Golden Perfection
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully lower the cheese balls into the hot oil in small batches, ensuring the pan isn’t overcrowded.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli.
- Enjoy the crispy outside and cheesy, melty inside!
Best Dipping Sauces for Broccoli Cheese Balls
Dipping sauces make this appetizer even better. Try these options:
✔ Classic Ranch
A creamy, tangy sauce that complements the crispy coating perfectly.
✔ Spicy Aioli
A blend of mayonnaise, garlic, and a touch of sriracha for a spicy kick.
✔ Marinara Sauce
A warm, herby tomato sauce that adds a classic Italian touch.
✔ Garlic Butter
Melted butter infused with garlic and herbs for a rich, flavorful dip.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 30 seconds, but the texture may be softer.
Freezing Option:
- Arrange uncooked cheese balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
- Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the frying time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Calcium | 180mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
Try Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a unique twist.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs and almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
4. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Thaw, drain, and remove excess moisture before chopping.
5. What’s the best oil for frying?
Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for a crispy texture.
6. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and coat the cheese balls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Party Appetizer
Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a party, for game night, or just as a tasty snack, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast! Give this recipe a try and elevate your appetizer game.