Crispy Veggie Cheese Balls Recipe (Air Fryer & Deep-Fry Methods)
Veggie cheese balls are a delightful and healthy snack packed with the goodness of broccoli, potatoes, and cream cheese. They are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and make a perfect appetizer for kids and adults alike. The best part? They can be made in an air fryer for a guilt-free version or deep-fried for extra crunch.
In this recipe, we will go through step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips to ensure your veggie cheese balls turn out perfect every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy & Delicious – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and creamy goodness.
2. Air-Fried or Deep-Fried Options – Choose what works best for you.
3. Perfect for Parties & Kids – A great finger food for snacking.
4. Customizable – Use different veggies or spices for unique flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
- Broccoli adds nutrition while blending well with potatoes.
- Cream cheese gives a creamy texture and mild tangy flavor.
- Sesame seeds & bread crumbs add crunch for the perfect bite.
- Air frying makes them light without deep-frying.
Variations to Try
1. Gluten-Free Version
•Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes for coating.
2. Extra Cheese-Filled Balls
•Stuff a small cube of mozzarella inside each ball before shaping for a melty cheese surprise.
3. Baked Veggie Cheese Balls (For an even healthier version!)
•Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
•Arrange the balls on a greased baking tray.
•Lightly spray with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
1.In a food processor, add broccoli, boiled potatoes, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cream cheese.
2.Pulse the mixture until well combined. The consistency should be thick enough to shape into balls. If it feels too soft, refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Shape the Veggie Balls
1.Lightly oil your palms to prevent sticking.
2.Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it into a smooth ball (about 1-inch in size).
3.Repeat with the remaining mixture to form all the balls.
Step 3: Coat the Balls
1.In a shallow plate, mix bread crumbs and sesame seeds.
2.Roll each veggie ball in the mixture, ensuring an even coating. This will give a crunchy texture when cooked.
Step 4: Cooking Options
Option 1: Air Fryer (Healthier Version)
1.Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 2-3 minutes.
2.Place the veggie balls inside the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
3.Lightly spray or brush oil over the balls.
4.Air fry for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
5.Once golden brown and crispy, remove and serve hot.
Option 2: Deep-Frying (Extra Crispy)
1.Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
2.Drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil—if it sizzles and rises, the oil is ready.
3.Carefully place the veggie balls into the hot oil in batches.
4.Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
5.Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Veggie Cheese Balls
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup Broccoli finely chopped
- 1 large Potato boiled
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp oil for spray or coating
Instructions
- In a food processor, add broccoli, boiled potatoes, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cream cheese.
- Pulse the mixture until well combined. The consistency should be thick enough to shape into balls. If it feels too soft, refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Lightly oil your palms to prevent sticking. Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it into a smooth ball (about 1-inch in size). Repeat with the remaining mixture to form all the balls.
- In a shallow plate, mix bread crumbs and sesame seeds.Roll each veggie ball in the mixture, ensuring an even coating. This will give a crunchy texture when cooked.
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 2-3 minutes.Place the veggie balls inside the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.Lightly spray or brush oil over the balls.Air fry for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.Once golden brown and crispy, remove and serve hot.
- For deep frying, heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.Drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil—if it sizzles and rises, the oil is ready.Carefully place the veggie balls into the hot oil in batches.Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy veggie cheese balls taste amazing with:
1. Tomato ketchup – A classic dip
2. Garlic mayo – Creamy and flavorful
3. Mint chutney – Refreshing and herby
4. Cheese dip – Double the cheesiness
Tips for Perfect Veggie Cheese Balls
- Chill the mixture – If the dough is too soft, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to make shaping easier.
- Use panko bread crumbs – For extra crunch, try using panko instead of regular bread crumbs.
- Add more veggies – You can include grated carrots, spinach, or corn for a variation.
- For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or finely chopped green chilies.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Leave space between the balls for even cooking.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Make ahead & freeze: You can shape and coat the veggie balls, then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
2. To cook from frozen: Air fry for 15 minutes instead of 12, or deep-fry directly.
3. Reheat leftovers: Pop them in the air fryer or oven for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Conclusion
Veggie cheese balls are a
delicious and versatile snack that can be made healthy in an air fryer or crispy with deep frying. Whether you’re making them for a party, kids’ lunch, or a quick evening snack, they are easy, nutritious, and totally irresistible!
Try them today and enjoy the cheesy, crunchy goodness! Let me know if you’d like more variations or tips. Happy cooking!