baked broccoli cheese balls

INGREDIENTS

– 1 1/2 heaping cups fresh broccoli florets

– 1 cup shredded Colby cheese

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 4 ounces Velveeta, cut into small chunks

– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

– 2 1/4 cups Panko crumbs, divided

– 1 egg, lightly beaten

– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

– 2 eggs, lightly beaten

– Vegetable or Canola oil

INSTRUCTIONS

– Steam broccoli until slightly softened. Let cool.

– Finely chop broccoli. You want the pieces to be 1/4-inch or less. Place in a large bowl.

– Add cheese, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup Panko crumbs, and 1 egg to bowl with broccoli. Stir well.

– Use your hands to shape mixture into balls using about a rounded tablespoon for each ball. You should get 12-14.

– Place balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

– Place flour in a bowl.

– Place the 2 lightly beaten eggs in a second bowl and mix in 1 tablespoon water.

– Place remaining 2 cups Panko crumbs in a third bowl.

– Pour about 2 inches of oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot. Heat oil to 375 degrees. For best results use a thermometer.

– Remove broccoli balls from refrigerator, coat in flour, dip in egg mixture, and then coat in Panko crumbs.

– Fry about 4 balls at a time cooking until golden brown on all sides.

– Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.