Broccoli Cheese Balls

### **How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls**

#### **Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli**
1. If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for about 3-4 minutes until tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it and drain any excess water.
2. Once the broccoli is cooked, chop it finely. You want small, manageable pieces that will form well when rolled into balls. Pat the chopped broccoli dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

#### **Step 2: Mix the Ingredients**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper.
2. Add the eggs and mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when formed into balls. If the mixture feels too loose, add a little more breadcrumbs.

#### **Step 3: Form the Cheese Balls**
1. Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Arrange the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

#### **Step 4: Cook the Broccoli Cheese Balls**
You can either bake or fry the broccoli cheese balls, depending on your preference.

**To Bake:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the balls are golden and crispy on the outside.

**To Fry:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
2. Fry the broccoli cheese balls in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden and crispy.
3. Remove the fried balls from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Once your Broccoli Cheese Balls are cooked to perfection, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, marinara, or a tangy garlic aioli are all great options.

—

### **Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls**

1. **Use Fresh Broccoli for Best Texture**: If using fresh broccoli, ensure it’s finely chopped so the balls hold together well. Overcooking the broccoli will make it too soft, so be sure to keep the texture in mind.
2. **Cheese Variations**: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add extra flavor and richness.
3. **Make-Ahead Option**: You can prepare the mixture ahead of time, form the balls, and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. This helps the balls firm up and makes frying or baking even easier.
4. **Crispier Texture**: For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs.
5. **Dipping Sauces**: Try pairing these cheesy bites with a variety of sauces like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a little kick.

—

### **Why These Broccoli Cheese Balls Are a Winner**

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a simple yet delightful dish that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with the nutritional benefits of broccoli. With their crispy exterior, cheesy interior, and the fun factor of bite-sized servings, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a game night, a school lunch, or a cozy dinner, these broccoli cheese balls are the perfect way to enjoy vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way.

Give them a try, and you’ll soon find yourself making these cheesy, crispy bites on repeat!