Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites

Ingredients

For the bites

• 3 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, cubed into small pieces
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika

For coating

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
• 1 tbsp chopped herbs

For the dipping sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the broccoli

1. Steam broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
2. Drain well and let cool.
3. Finely chop and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel.

2. Make the mixture

1. In a bowl, combine:
   • Chopped broccoli
   • Cheddar cheese
   • Breadcrumbs
   • Parmesan
   • Eggs
   • Garlic
   • Herbs
   • Salt, pepper, and paprika
2. Mix until the mixture holds together.

3. Form the bites

1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture.
2. Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center.
3. Roll into a ball and seal completely.
4. Repeat with remaining mixture.

4. Coat

1. Mix panko, Parmesan, and herbs in a shallow dish.
2. Roll each ball in the coating mixture.

5. Cook

Air Fryer Method

• Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly spray bites with oil.
• Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.

Oven Method

• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.

Pan-Fry Method

• Fry in a shallow layer of oil for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy.

6. Make the sauce

Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.

7. Serve

Serve hot with the dipping sauce while the cheese center is still melted and stretchy.

Yield: About 20–24 bites
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes