🥦 Cheesy Broccoli Balls
📝 Ingredients
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2 cups broccoli florets (finely chopped)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
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2 eggs
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika (optional)
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Oil for frying
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Broccoli
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Steam broccoli for 3–4 minutes until tender.
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Drain very well and finely chop (remove excess moisture).
2️⃣ Mix the Filling
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In a bowl, combine:
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Chopped broccoli
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Shredded cheese
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Parmesan
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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Eggs
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Garlic
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Salt, pepper, paprika
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Mix until everything holds together.
3️⃣ Shape
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Roll mixture into small balls (about golf ball size).
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Place on a plate.
4️⃣ Coat
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Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.
5️⃣ Fry
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Heat oil to medium (about 350°F / 175°C).
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Fry 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
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Remove and drain on paper towels.
🔥 Optional: Bake Instead
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place balls on lined baking sheet.
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Lightly spray with oil.
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Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
💡 Tips
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For extra gooey centers, cube small pieces of cheese and place inside each ball before rolling.
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Make them spicy with red pepper flakes.
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Serve with ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.