Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious bite-sized snack that combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli with the rich flavors of cheddar and Parmesan. These cheesy, crisp balls are a great appetizer or snack — or as a veggie-stuffed side dish — that they add to their repertoire. With their crunchy exterior and gooey cheese stuffing, they’re sure to be a winner for any gathering, whether it’s game day, family dinner. And they’re baked, so they’re on the lighter, healthier side without missing any of that delicious flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Healthy & Cheesy: Packed with broccoli and other healthy ingredients, these cheese balls have veggies while still tasting cheesy.
Simple Ingredients: No list of complicated ingredients or dreaded grocery store runs; made with things you likely already have on hand.
Baked, Not Fried: These cheese balls are baked instead of fried, which means they have a nice crispy coating without additional oil, making them a little lighter.
Kid Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy flavor and crunchy texture, and it’s a fun way to get them to eat their veggies.
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Key Ingredients:
Here’s what each ingredient contributes to the recipe and a few tips for maximum flavor and texture.
Broccoli Florets: You can use either fresh or frozen broccoli here, as long as it’s steamed to a tender-crisp texture. Broccoli florets chopped very small mingle with the other ingredients, adding a bright green note.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs bind the ingredients together and provide texture. So you can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a creamy, tangy taste. A sharp cheddar is best for a stronger cheese flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan contributes a salty and nutty flavor, and also crisps up the exterior.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the broccoli and cheese mixture together as it bakes.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour gives the balls structure, preventing them from falling apart.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These seasonings bring savory depth to balance the broccoli and cheese.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that help bring out the flavor of the whole thing.
Cooking Spray: A thin layer on a baking sheet prevents the cheese balls from getting stuck, and aids in crisping them up.
The full list of ingredients with amounts and instructions is in the recipe card at the bottom
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Preheat the Oven Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready to bake the cheese balls.
Steam the Broccoli Steam broccoli florets for 3–5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. This keeps the broccoli’s bright green color and nutrients intact.
Tip: Steam it or place it in a microwave-safe dish with a little water. When microwaving, cover with a lid or plastic wrap to keep the steam in.
Cool and Chop: Once steamed, let the broccoli cool for a couple minutes and finely chop so that it blends well with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Prepare: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs and flour. The flour and bread crumbs are binders.
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the bowl to amp up the flavor.
Combine Well: Stir until the mixture combines and sticks together without being too dry or wet.
Tip: Mixing by hand may help this in getting a more thorough distribution of ingredients.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cheese Balls
Form the Cheese Balls: For a perfect bite-size, roll small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Stage the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to line a baking sheet, or lightly grease it using cooking spray.
Bake: Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese balls are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Tip: If you want them extra crispy, broil them 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Cool the Slight: After baking, take out from the oven and allow the cheese balls to cool slightly to firm.
Serve: Cue the cheese balls hot as a snack, appetizer or side. Serve with marinara, ranch, or a tangy yogurt dip for added flavor!
Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Cheese Balls:
Steam Broccoli Till Tender-Crisp: If steamed too long, the broccoli will turn mushy, affecting the cheese balls’ texture.
Adjust Meat Mixture Consistency as Needed: If mixture seems too wet, add a little more of the breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, you can add a splash of water or another egg.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: A quick broil at the end delivers a crispy, golden-brown exterior for these cheese balls without frying.
You can customize your cheese: Use cheddar instead of mozzarella, Monterey Jack or another cheese you prefer to make a different flavor.
Variations:
This is a flexible recipe that can be easily adapted. Here are some ideas to try:
Curb your hunger pangs with some fat: Red tomato soup with basil and pepper tastes good in the winter, but make sure you add some spices when cooking.
Switch Up Your Veggies: Use the recipe as a guide and stir in different finely chopped vegetables, like spinach, cauliflower, or zucchini.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fold in some fresh chopped parsley, basil, or chives for extra brightness and flavor.
Conclusion:
The Ultimate Broccoli Cheese Balls – Crispy, cheesy, veggie-packed deliciousness all in one! They are easy to make and a hit with kids and adults alike, so they fit in at just about any gathering. Whether they are served as an appetizer, snack or side, these cheese balls will have everyone going back for seconds!
Enjoy each cheesy, veggie-packed bite!
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp (3-5 minutes). Allow to cool, then finely chop.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Roll small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
- Cool slightly and serve warm with marinara or ranch dip. Enjoy!