Broccoli Cheese Delight (Print Version)

Experience the joy of biting into our Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls, where the delightful crunch meets the creamy, bold flavors of cheese and the fresh, earthy essence of broccoli. A true culinary masterpiece that promises to elevate your snack time.

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets.
02 - 1 cup shredded Colby cheese.
03 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
04 - 4 ounces Velveeta, cut into small chunks.
05 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes.
06 - 2 1/4 cups Panko crumbs, divided.
07 - 1 egg, lightly beaten.
08 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
09 - 2 eggs, lightly beaten.
10 - Vegetable or canola oil (for frying).

# Instructions:

01 - Steam the broccoli florets until slightly softened. Allow them to cool before handling.
02 - Finely chop the cooled broccoli into small pieces, about 1/4-inch or less. Place the chopped broccoli in a large mixing bowl.
03 - Add the shredded Colby cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Velveeta chunks, crushed red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup of Panko crumbs, and 1 lightly beaten egg to the bowl with the broccoli. Mix well to combine.
04 - Use your hands to shape the mixture into balls, using about a rounded tablespoon of the mixture for each ball. You should get approximately 12-14 balls. Place the formed balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
05 - Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with the flour, one with the remaining 2 lightly beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon of water, and the third with the remaining 2 cups of Panko crumbs.
06 - Pour about 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil into a Dutch oven or heavy pot. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer for accurate temperature control.
07 - Remove the broccoli cheese balls from the refrigerator. Coat each ball in flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with Panko crumbs.
08 - Fry the balls in batches of about 4 at a time, cooking until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch.
09 - Remove the fried balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious appetizer or snack that combines the goodness of broccoli with the richness of cheese. Perfectly fried to a golden brown, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.