Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites

Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites are crispy, flavorful snacks that are perfect for any occasion. These bites are made with tender broccoli, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice, all coated in crunchy Panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. They are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why Make Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites

Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites are a delicious way to sneak in some veggies while indulging in cheesy goodness. They make for a fantastic appetizer, party snack, or even a fun side dish. Plus, they are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite cheeses and seasonings.

How to Make Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broccoli:
   • Steam the broccoli until tender. Allow it to cool slightly, then finely chop it and place it in a medium to large bowl.
2. Mix Ingredients:
   • To the bowl with chopped broccoli, add shredded Colby cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, cubed Velveeta, crushed red pepper flakes, a portion of the Panko breadcrumbs, and one beaten egg. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
3. Shape into Balls:
   • Scoop up 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into balls. Place the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for an hour to firm them up.
4. Prepare Coating Station:
   • In three separate bowls, set up a coating station: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last one with the remaining Panko breadcrumbs.
5. Coat and Fry:
   • Heat vegetable or canola oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit in a large skillet. Roll each ball in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat with Panko breadcrumbs.
   • Carefully place the coated balls in the hot oil and fry for a few minutes on each side until golden brown. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking, leaving space between each ball.
6. Drain and Serve:
   • Once the balls are evenly golden brown, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a tray lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
   • Serve the Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites warm and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites can be served as a tasty appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard. They also make a great addition to party platters or as a fun side dish alongside burgers, sandwiches, or salads.

Storage Info

If you have any leftovers, store the Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Some Techniques or Tips

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure that the bites cook evenly and become crispy.
• Refrigerating the shaped balls before frying helps them hold their shape better and prevents them from falling apart during frying.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and spices to customize the flavor of the broccoli bites according to your preference.

Variation

For a healthier alternative, you can bake the broccoli bites in the oven instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

FAQs about Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before chopping and mixing with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make the broccoli mixture ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the broccoli mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to shape and fry. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping into balls.
3. Can I freeze the fried broccoli bites?
   • Yes, you can freeze the fried broccoli bites for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.

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