Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

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!