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In today’s health-conscious world, the demand for nutritious snacks is on the rise. As more people seek to balance indulgence with wellness, finding snacks that are both delicious and wholesome becomes essential. Enter Cheesy Crunchy Broccoli Bites, the perfect solution for anyone looking to satisfy their snack cravings with a healthy twist. These delightful morsels are not just for those who are mindful of their diets; they are also a hit among children and adults alike, making them an ideal choice for family gatherings, parties, or even a quiet evening at home.

Air Fryer Broccoli Cheese Balls

Discover the joy of snacking with Cheesy Crunchy Broccoli Bites! This delightful recipe combines fresh broccoli and melted cheese for a tasty treat that appeals to all ages. Packed with nutritious ingredients and easy to make, these bites are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy a flavorful snack that not only curbs cravings but also sneaks in essential nutrients. Try this fun recipe and make healthy eating a delicious part of your day!

Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil spray

Instructions
 

Blanch the Broccoli: Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the finely chopped broccoli florets and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until vibrant green. Drain and immediately place the broccoli in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and squeeze out any excess moisture.

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.

      Form the Balls: Using your hands, scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into balls, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined tray.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

          Air Fry the Broccoli Balls: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the broccoli cheese balls in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

            Serve: Once cooked, let the broccoli cheese balls cool for a minute before serving. They are delicious on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings