Crispy Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites Recipe: A Family Favorite

Cheesy fried broccoli bites change humble vegetables into crispy, irresistible morsels that spark conversation at any gathering.

These delectable appetizers combine creamy cheese with tender green florets in a golden, crunchy coating.

Hearty and satisfying, the bites offer a clever twist on traditional side dishes.

Smart home cooks know how to elevate simple ingredients into crowd-pleasing treats that vanish within minutes.

The magic happens when you blend sharp flavors with a perfectly seasoned breading that creates an addictive crunch.

Nutritious vegetables become indulgent without losing their wholesome essence, making these bites a clever compromise between health and pure deliciousness.

Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites That Beat Store-Bought

• Munch on Irresistible Cheese Bombs: These broccoli bites pack an explosive flavor combination of multiple cheeses that melt perfectly inside crispy golden breadcrumb coating, creating an addictive appetizer that'll disappear from the plate in seconds.
• Quick and Easy Party Crowd-Pleaser: Simple preparation steps allow even novice cooks to create restaurant-quality snacks in under an hour, making these bites ideal for game nights, potlucks, or spontaneous gatherings with friends and family.
• Sneaky Veggie Delivery System: Broccoli gets transformed from ordinary vegetable into a crunchy, cheesy treat that kids and adults will devour without realizing they're actually eating something nutritious, turning a potentially boring healthy food into an exciting culinary experience.
• Master Texture Contrast Delight: Crispy exterior meets soft, gooey interior, providing an incredible sensory experience where each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by warm, melted cheese that creates an irresistible mouthfeel and keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients for Homemade Fried Broccoli Bites

• Broccoli: Fresh green vegetable with a slightly crisp texture, best when bright green and firm.
• Colby Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Velveeta: Melty cheeses that provide rich, creamy flavor and help bind the mixture.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and crispy Japanese-style breadcrumbs that create a golden, crunchy exterior.
• Flour: Helps create a smooth coating and assists with egg adherence.
• Eggs: Binding agent that helps breading stick and adds richness to the bites.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle spicy kick and depth of flavor to the broccoli bites.
• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil for deep frying that creates a crisp, golden exterior.

How to Fry Broccoli Bites Until Crisp and Cheesy

Step 1: Prepare Broccoli

Steam broccoli until tender. Let it cool slightly, then chop finely into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Create Cheesy Mixture

• Colby cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Velveeta
• Red pepper flakes
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Egg

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Shape Broccoli Balls

Scoop mixture using a tablespoon and roll into compact balls. Place shaped balls on a plate.

Step 4: Chill Broccoli Balls

Refrigerate the broccoli balls for 1 hour to help them firm up and hold their shape.

Step 5: Prepare Breading Station

• Bowl 1: All-purpose flour
• Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
• Bowl 3: Remaining Panko breadcrumbs

Step 6: Coat Broccoli Balls

• Rolling in flour
• Dipping in beaten egg
• Covering with Panko breadcrumbs

Step 7: Heat Cooking Oil

Pour oil into a large skillet, heating to 375°F. Use a cooking thermometer to monitor temperature.

Step 8: Fry Broccoli Poppers

Gently place breaded broccoli balls into hot oil. Fry in small batches, ensuring space between each popper.

Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 9: Drain Excess Oil

Transfer fried poppers to a paper towel-lined tray to absorb extra oil.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the warm, crispy broccoli cheese poppers immediately. Serve as an appetizer or snack.

Tips for Getting Even Crunch and Melty Centers

• Chill for Perfect Texture: Refrigerate the broccoli mixture for an hour to help the balls maintain their shape during frying.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 375°F, ensuring crispy exteriors without burning.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry broccoli bites in small batches, leaving space between each bite for even, golden-brown cooking.
• Pat Dry Broccoli: After steaming, thoroughly drain and pat the broccoli to remove excess moisture, preventing soggy bites.
• Cheese Selection Matters: Mix different cheese varieties for a complex, rich flavor that complements the broccoli's earthy taste.

Store and Reheat Fried Broccoli Without Sogginess

• Refrigerate: Store leftover broccoli bites in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freeze: Wrap individual bites in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 1 month to maintain best quality and texture.
• Reheat: Crisp up cold bites in a preheated 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy, avoiding microwave to preserve crunchiness.

Sides and Sauces That Match Fried Broccoli Bites

• Spark Dipping Magic: Pair these crispy broccoli bites with classic ranch dressing or zesty marinara sauce for an explosive flavor combination that elevates the cheesy goodness.
• Cool Beer Companion: Match the fried bites with a light lager or hoppy IPA to cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate.
• Herbaceous Wine Harmony: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the broccoli's green notes and balance the cheesy, deep-fried texture.
• Bright Salad Sidekick: Serve alongside a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and create a well-rounded meal that offsets the bite's indulgent nature.

Fun Ingredient Swaps for Your Next Batch

• Spicy Jalapeño Cheese Poppers: Replace red pepper flakes with finely diced fresh jalapeños for an extra kick of heat, adding a zesty flavor profile to the classic broccoli bites.
• Mediterranean Herb Broccoli Nuggets: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh herbs like oregano and basil to give the bites a Mediterranean-inspired taste and aroma.
• Ranch-Infused Broccoli Bites: Mix in a packet of dry ranch seasoning to the cheese mixture, creating a tangy and creamy flavor that complements the broccoli and adds a unique twist to the original recipe.
• Bacon Cheddar Broccoli Bombs: Fold in crispy chopped bacon bits and swap Velveeta for sharp cheddar cheese, introducing a smoky and savory element that elevates the appetizer's overall taste.

Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy cheesy fried broccoli bites deliver a mouthwatering blend of garden-fresh vegetables and melted cheese. Perfectly golden and irresistible, these little appetizers will become your new favorite party snack that everyone craves.

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Ingredients

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Cheesy Fried Broccoli Bites

Cheeses:

• 1 cup shredded Colby cheese
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces (113 grams) Velveeta, cut into small cubes

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 ¼ cups Panko breadcrumbs, divided
• ½ cup all-purpose flour

Binding and Seasoning:

• 3 eggs, lightly beaten (1 egg, 2 eggs for breading)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Transform steamed broccoli into tender, finely chopped pieces and transfer to a mixing vessel.
2. Incorporate Colby, Cheddar, and Velveeta cheeses with red pepper flakes, Panko breadcrumbs, and whisked egg into the broccoli mixture.
3. Carefully shape the combined ingredients into uniform compact spheres using gentle hand pressure.
4. Refrigerate the formed bites for one hour to enhance structural integrity and flavor melding.
5. Arrange three separate breading stations: first with flour for initial coating, second with beaten eggs for moisture, and third with remaining Panko for crisp exterior.
6. Preheat cooking oil in a deep skillet to precisely 375°F, using a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
7. Methodically roll each broccoli sphere through flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb stations, ensuring complete and even coverage.
8. Carefully lower breaded bites into hot oil, maintaining sufficient spacing to prevent overcrowding and ensure consistent golden-brown coloration.
9. Fry each batch for several minutes, rotating to achieve uniform crispness and deep amber exterior.
10. Transfer fried bites onto paper towel-lined surface to drain excess oil and maintain optimal crunchiness.
11. Serve immediately while warm, presenting these delectable cheese-infused broccoli morsels as an irresistible appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Chill the mixture thoroughly to help the broccoli bites hold their shape and prevent falling apart during frying.
• Use a precise oil temperature of 375°F to achieve perfectly crispy exterior without burning or undercooking the bites.
• Ensure even coating by gently pressing breadcrumbs onto each ball for maximum crunchiness and golden-brown color.
• Drain excess oil on paper towels to keep the bites light and prevent greasiness.
• Work in small batches while frying to maintain consistent oil temperature and prevent overcrowding.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, enjoying the crispy outside and melty cheese inside.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg