Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites

Broccoli Cheese Bites

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups Fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 4 oz. Velveeta, cut into small cubes
• ½ tsp. Crushed red pepper flakes
• 2¼ cups Panko crumbs, divided
• 1 Egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup All-purpose flour
• 2 Eggs, lightly beaten
• Vegetable or canola oil

Instructions:

1. Steam the broccoli until it becomes tender. Allow it to cool for a while.
2. Finely chop the broccoli and place it in a medium to large bowl.
3. Add in the shredded cheese, red pepper flakes, a portion of the Panko breadcrumbs, and one beaten egg. Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
4. Scoop up 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into balls.
5. Refrigerate the balls for an hour to firm them up.
6. Prepare three separate bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last one with Panko breadcrumbs for coating.
7. Heat vegetable or canola oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit in a large skillet. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature.
8. Roll each ball in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat with Panko breadcrumbs.
9. Place the coated balls in the hot oil and fry for a few minutes on each side until golden brown. Cook in batches, leaving space between each ball.
10. Once the balls are evenly golden brown, remove them from the oil and place them on a tray lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
11. Serve the broccoli cheese balls warm and enjoy!