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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a tasty and nutritious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for the whole family. These bite-sized treats are packed with tender broccoli, gooey cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection. They’re easy to make, healthy, and great for a quick snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and steam for 4-5 minutes until tender. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Chop the steamed broccoli into small pieces.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Form the Balls
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
Brush the tops of the broccoli cheese balls with olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the broccoli cheese balls to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook Notes
- Moisture: Be sure to pat the broccoli dry thoroughly after steaming to avoid excess moisture, which can make the cheese balls soggy.
- Cheese: For best results, use sharp cheddar cheese, which provides a more pronounced flavor that pairs well with the broccoli.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use regular breadcrumbs, panko, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Variations
1. Spicy Broccoli Cheese Balls
Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Italian-Style Broccoli Cheese Balls
Stir in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and use mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for an Italian twist.
3. Bacon Broccoli Cheese Balls
Add 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon to the mixture for a smoky, savory flavor that complements the cheese and broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
- With Dipping Sauce: Serve these broccoli cheese balls with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or honey mustard for dipping.
- As a Side Dish: These cheese balls make a great side dish for grilled chicken or baked fish.
- On a Party Platter: Include them on a party appetizer platter along with veggies, dips, and other bite-sized treats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Broccoli Cheese Balls Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the broccoli cheese balls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 1 day before baking. This makes them a convenient make-ahead option for parties or weeknight dinners.
How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Store any leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Freeze Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Yes, these cheese balls freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy broccoli in a fun, cheesy form. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or just as a quick family treat, these cheese balls are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
