Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Introduction

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and cheesy, tender broccoli inside, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes, then let them cool.
3. Step 3: Finely chop the cooled broccoli.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Step 5: Form the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands.
6. Step 6: Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray and place the broccoli cheese balls on it, spacing them evenly.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and firm to the touch.
8. Step 8: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with marinara sauce or ranch dip.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the balls with cooking spray before baking.
• Try adding chopped herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness and flavor.
• Substitute cheddar with mozzarella for a milder, gooier cheese pull.
• If you don’t have a steamer, microwave the broccoli florets in a covered bowl with a little water until tender.

Storage

Store leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until heated through to maintain crispness. They can also be frozen before baking—freeze the shaped balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the balls and freeze them uncooked. Bake from frozen when ready, which makes for a convenient snack or appetizer.

What dipping sauces go well with broccoli cheese balls?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli all pair wonderfully with these cheesy bites and add extra flavor.

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 555 reviews

Deliciously cheesy and wholesome baked broccoli cheese balls, perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack. These crispy on the outside, tender on the inside bites combine steamed broccoli, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, all bound together and baked to golden perfection.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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)

Seasonings

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional

• Cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it reaches the perfect temperature while you prepare the mixture.
2. Steam broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step softens the broccoli while retaining some crunch for texture.
3. Chop broccoli: Allow the steamed broccoli to cool slightly, then chop it finely to create even, small pieces that will blend well in the mixture.
4. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
5. Form balls: Take portions of the mixture and shape them into 1-inch balls, ensuring they are compact so they hold together during baking.
6. Prepare baking sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet using cooking spray to prevent sticking and to help the cheese balls crisp nicely.
7. Bake: Place the broccoli cheese balls onto the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Cool and serve: Let the cheese balls cool slightly once out of the oven, then serve warm with your favorite marinara sauce or ranch dip for a delightful snack or appetizer.

Notes

• Make sure to finely chop the broccoli after steaming to ensure the cheese balls hold together well.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs or panko for a crispier texture.
• Monitor baking time closely to avoid over-browning.
• These cheese balls can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

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