Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets (finely chopped); 1 cup breadcrumbs (for binding); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs (for binding); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for binding); 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for seasoning); 1/2 tsp onion powder (for seasoning); to taste salt and pepper; as needed cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a tasty, bite-sized treat that brings together the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the savory flavors of cheddar and Parmesan. These cheesy, crispy balls make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a veggie-packed side dish. With their satisfying crunch and melty cheese center, they’re bound to be a hit for any occasion, from game days to family dinners. Plus, they’re baked, making them a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing any of that delicious flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with broccoli, these cheese balls sneak in veggies while staying deliciously cheesy.
Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry items, so there’s no need for a complicated shopping list.
Baked, Not Fried: Baking gives these cheese balls a crispy exterior without the extra oil, making them a healthier option.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy flavor and crispy texture, and it’s a fun way to encourage them to eat more veggies.

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Key Ingredients:

Here’s what each ingredient brings to the recipe and some tips for the best flavor and texture.

Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works here, as long as it’s steamed to a tender-crisp texture. Finely chopped broccoli blends well with the other ingredients and adds a bright green color.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients and add texture. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a creamy, tangy flavor. Sharp cheddar works best for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty note and enhances the crispy exterior.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping hold the broccoli and cheese mixture together during baking.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour adds structure to the balls, keeping them from falling apart.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These seasonings add savory depth to complement the broccoli and cheese.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the flavor of the entire dish.
Cooking Spray: Lightly greasing the baking sheet ensures the cheese balls don’t stick and helps them get crispy.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the cheese balls.

Steam the Broccoli: Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. This maintains the broccoli’s bright green color and nutrients.
Tip: Use a steamer basket or microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water. If microwaving, cover with a lid or plastic wrap to trap the steam.

Cool and Chop: Allow the steamed broccoli to cool for a few minutes, then finely chop to help it blend well with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour. The breadcrumbs and flour act as binders.

Season the Mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl to boost the flavor.

Mix Thoroughly: Stir until the mixture is well combined and holds together without being too dry or too wet.
Tip: Mixing by hand can ensure a more thorough distribution of ingredients.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Cheese Balls

Form the Cheese Balls: Roll small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls for an ideal bite-size.

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Place on the Sheet: Arrange the cheese balls about an inch apart on the baking sheet for even cooking.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese balls are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye on them.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cheese balls cool slightly to set.

Serve: Enjoy the cheese balls warm as a snack, appetizer, or side. Pair with marinara, ranch, or a tangy yogurt dip for extra flavor!

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls:

Steam Broccoli Until Tender-Crisp: Over-steaming can make the broccoli mushy, which may affect the texture of the cheese balls.
Adjust Consistency as Needed: If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a small splash of water or an extra egg.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: A quick broil at the end gives these cheese balls a crispy, golden-brown exterior without frying.
Customize Your Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any other cheese you like to change up the flavor.

Variations:

This recipe is flexible and can easily be customized. Here are some ideas to try:

Add Spices for Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Use Different Veggies: Swap or add in other finely chopped vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, or zucchini.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh chopped parsley, basil, or chives for added freshness and flavor.

Conclusion:

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and veggie-packed deliciousness. They’re easy to make and loved by both kids and adults, making them a great choice for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side, these cheese balls will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Enjoy every cheesy, veggie-filled bite!