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A platter of freshly baked broccoli cheese balls with a golden crust.

Crispy Parmesan Broccoli Bites

These crispy parmesan broccoli bites are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. They're packed with flavor and have a satisfying crunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • plate or baking sheet
  • shallow dishes
  • deep pan or Dutch oven
  • slotted spoon
  • paper towels

Ingredients
  

Broccoli Bites

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped (about 1 medium head)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • salt Pinch

For Coating

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying (or olive oil spray for baking)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Steam or boil broccoli florets until tender-crisp; drain, cool, and finely chop or mash.
  • Combine chopped broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, onion, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 beaten egg, garlic powder, pepper, and salt in a bowl.
  • Roll the mixture into 1-tablespoon size balls and place them on a plate.
  • Set up a breading station with flour in the first dish, 2 whisked eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third.

Coating and Cooking

  • Dredge each ball in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs.
  • To fry, heat vegetable oil to 350-375°F and cook balls in batches for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
  • To bake, preheat oven to 400°F, arrange balls on a greased baking sheet, spray with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  • Let the cooked bites cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broccoli mixture. These bites are great served with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.