Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that combines tender broccoli with flavorful cheeses. Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, they make a perfect snack or party treat.

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, as needed)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3 to 5 minutes. Let them cool, then finely chop.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Step 3: Roll the mixture into small 1-inch balls. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with cooking spray.
4. Step 4: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the balls turn golden brown. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for an additional 1 to 2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.
5. Step 5: Allow the broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite marinara or ranch dip.

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
• Add finely chopped cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
• Mix in some herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh twist.
• If you prefer a softer texture, reduce baking time slightly and serve immediately.

Storage

Store leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze broccoli cheese balls?

Yes, you can freeze them. Place the uncooked balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I make these vegan?

To make a vegan version, use plant-based cheese alternatives, flax eggs in place of eggs, and vegan breadcrumbs. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 97 reviews

Delicious and crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls made with fresh broccoli, cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, bound together with eggs and breadcrumbs. Baked until golden brown, these bite-sized treats are perfect as a snack or appetizer, served warm with your favorite dip.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 cheese balls 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli Cheese Balls

• 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, as needed)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, typically 3 to 5 minutes. Once steamed, allow them to cool slightly, then finely chop to small pieces suitable for mixing.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat fully while preparing the mixture.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and all-purpose flour. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all components are evenly incorporated.
4. Form Cheese Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
5. Bake: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the broccoli cheese balls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crisp on the outside.
6. Optional Broil for Crispiness: For an extra crispy exterior, broil the cheese balls for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, making sure to watch closely to prevent burning.
7. Serve: Allow the broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm alongside marinara sauce, ranch dip, or your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

• Steaming broccoli rather than boiling helps retain nutrients and texture.
• To ensure cheese balls hold their shape, do not overmix the ingredients.
• Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
• For a sharper flavor, use extra sharp cheddar cheese.
• These cheese balls can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.

Keywords: broccoli cheese balls, baked broccoli bites, cheese appetizer, veggie snacks, baked cheese balls, appetizer recipe, vegetarian snacks