Cheesy Broccoli Bites Recipe

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Cheesy Broccoli Bites are a simple, crispy treat thatโ€™s great for snacks or parties. The combination of melted cheese and broccoli wrapped in a crunchy coating is always a favorite. Theyโ€™re easy to make and taste best when fresh from the fryer. Everyone loves these Cheesy Broccoli Bites!

These can be an appetizer or a side served with Cowboy Stew.

A white plate with golden-brown, crispy arancini balls; one is cut open, revealing a creamy, cheesy filling with herbs.

Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Have you ever had the Broccoli Bites at Harvey’s restaurant? I modeled these Cheesy Broccoli Balls after them. They are crispy outside with a soft and cheesy inside. They are easy and quick to make for any occasion.

A white plate with nine breaded Cheesy Broccoli Bites, one halved revealing a cheesy filling with green bits, possibly herbs or vegetables, on a white cloth.

PMc says:

I like this recipe because itโ€™s a creative way to include more vegetables while still feeling like a treat. A pro tip: chop the broccoli finely before mixing to make shaping the bites easier and ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Broccoli Bites

To fry

A white plate with nine golden-brown, fried balls. One ball is split open, revealing a soft, yellow filling. Garnished with chopped herbs.

Cheesy Broccoli Bites Cooking Tips

Steam the broccoli until itโ€™s fork-tender but not overcooked.

Use a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture evenly and save time shaping them.

Chill the bites for 15โ€“20 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better.

Fry them in small batches so the oil temperature stays consistent.

      A plate of golden-brown Cheesy Broccoli Bitesgarnished with herbs. One ball is cut open, revealing the creamy pasta filling inside.

      Cheesy Broccoli Bites FAQs

      How do I keep the bites crispy?

      Let them rest on a wire rack instead of a plate to prevent sogginess.

      Can I bake them instead of frying?

      Yes, bake at 375ยฐF until golden, turning them halfway through. Brush with oil for a crispier texture. You can also air fry them.

      How do I store leftovers?

      Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for the best results.

      A plate of golden-brown, fried cheesy broccoli bites displayed, with one ball broken open to reveal the creamy pasta and broccoli filling inside.

      Conclusion

      This recipe is a simple snack that combines cheese and vegetables in a crispy coating. Theyโ€™re easy to customize and fun to make, making them a hit for any occasion. Enjoy these Cheesy Broccoli Bites fresh for the best flavor and crunch!

      Enjoy my latest recipes

      A white plate with golden-brown, crispy arancini balls; one is cut open, revealing a creamy, cheesy filling with herbs.

      Cheesy Broccoli Bites Recipe

      Cheese balls are crispy outside. Soft and cheesy inside. These deep-fried bites are easy and quick to make for any occasion.
      Author: Paula
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      Prep Time: 10 minutes
      Cook Time: 5 minutes
      Servings: 15 servings

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      Ingredients

      For the bites

      • 1 cup (3.17 oz | 90 g) broccoli florets steamed
      • 1 and ยฝ cups (7.12 oz | 202 g) cheddar cheese shredded
      • 1 and ยฝ cups (7.12 oz | 202 g) Italian cheese blend shredded
      • ยฝ teaspoon paprika
      • ยฝ teaspoon garlic powder
      • ยผ cup (0.52 oz | 15 g) panko breadcrumbs
      • 1 large eggs lightly beaten

      To fry

      Instructions

      Prepare the balls:

      • Finely chop broccoli florets and place in a bowl. Add all cheese, paprika, garlic, ยผ cup panko breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
        A clear bowl containing a mixture of chopped vegetables and grains, accompanied by a side of Cheesy Broccoli Bites, rests on a speckled countertop.
      • Mix with your hand and use a bit more than 1 tablespoon to shape each ball.
        A plate with 14 round, uncooked falafel balls rests on a speckled countertop, reminiscent of cheesy broccoli bites in their perfect symmetry.
      • Arrange them on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

      To fry

      • Place flour in a shallow bowl.
        A white plate with flour-covered round dough balls, some stuffed with cheesy broccoli goodness, sits alongside a few uncovered rounds on a speckled countertop.
      • Mix beaten eggs with 1 tablespoon of water in a second shallow bowl.
        Five dough balls, soon-to-be Cheesy Broccoli Bites, rest in a bowl of beaten eggs on a speckled countertop.
      • Mix panko breadcrumbs with a bit of salt and pepper in a third shallow bowl.
        Six round balls covered in breadcrumbs rest on a white plate, placed on a speckled countertop. These delightful treats are actually Cheesy Broccoli Bites, offering a tasty twist with every crunchy mouthful.
      • Heat about 2 cups of oil in a pot until hot but not too hot.
      • Remove balls from the refrigerator. Coat in the flour first then dip in the egg and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
      • Fry about 4 balls at a time in the pot until golden brown. Be careful they will fry fast.
        A plate of fried arancini balls, reminiscent of cheesy broccoli bites, is garnished with chopped parsley on a white cloth. A fork and knife are placed nearby on the table.
      • Prepare a plate with kitchen paper and lay broccoli balls on them to remove the excess of fat.
      • Serve hot

      Nutrition

      Calories: 299kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 66mg | Sodium: 364mg | Potassium: 132mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 422IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 265mg | Iron: 2mg

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