Description
These crispy broccoli cheese bites are the perfect savory snack—golden and crunchy on the outside, with a cheesy, gooey center. Made with tender broccoli, Colby, cheddar, and Velveeta cheese, they are flavorful, satisfying, and easy to make. Perfect as a party appetizer, side dish, or fun snack, these bites will disappear fast!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ heaping cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz Velveeta cheese, diced
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2¼ cups Panko breadcrumbs (divided)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten (for coating)
- Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Broccoli
- Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still bright green.
- Drain and let cool for a few minutes.
- Finely chop the broccoli and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- Add the shredded Colby cheese, cheddar cheese, diced Velveeta, red pepper flakes, and ¼ cup of Panko breadcrumbs to the bowl.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Shape the Bites
- Stir in one lightly beaten egg to help bind the mixture.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized portions using your hands.
4. Coat the Bites
- Set up three separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Lightly beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Remaining 2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs.
- Roll each broccoli cheese ball in the flour, dip in the beaten eggs, then coat in Panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
5. Fry the Bites
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a deep fryer or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the bites in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, sriracha mayo, or honey mustard.
Notes
- For a Healthier Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Panko and flour.
- Spicy Option: Add finely chopped jalapeños for a heat kick.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks & Appetizers
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: American