Baked broccoli cheese balls are a delicious, crispy, and cheesy snack that combines the rich flavors of cheddar and Parmesan with the nutritious goodness of broccoli. Perfect as a healthy appetizer, snack, or side dish, these bite-sized treats offer a delightful balance of crunchy breadcrumbs and gooey melted cheese.
Whether you’re looking for a fun way to add more vegetables to your meals or need a quick and satisfying finger food, these broccoli cheese balls are an easy and flavorful option. Unlike traditional fried snacks, these oven-baked cheese balls are lighter while still offering that satisfying crunch and cheesy goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative – Baked instead of fried, making them lower in fat and calories.
- Quick and Easy – Requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients.
- Kid-Friendly – A great way to get picky eaters to enjoy broccoli.
- Versatile – Works as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Extra Crispiness:
- Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Steam the Broccoli – Place the florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 5-7 minutes until tender. Alternatively, you can microwave them with a splash of water in a covered bowl for 3-4 minutes.
- Chop Finely – Once steamed, allow the broccoli to cool slightly, then chop it finely. This ensures it blends well with the other ingredients and forms compact cheese balls.
- Remove Excess Moisture – Pat the chopped broccoli with a paper towel to absorb any extra moisture. This helps prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape. If it feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Shape the Cheese Balls
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter) and roll them into compact balls.
- Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for even baking.
- Lightly spray the cheese balls with cooking spray or brush them with a small amount of olive oil. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- For an extra crunch, switch the oven to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the baked broccoli cheese balls cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli – If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain it thoroughly before chopping.
- For a Crispier Texture – Roll the balls in extra breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchier exterior.
- Adjust the Cheese – Try a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor variations.
- Make Ahead Option – Shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-Friendly – Store unbaked cheese balls in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Broccoli Cheese Balls – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version.
- Extra Creamy – Mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese for a smoother, creamier texture.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
These broccoli cheese balls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- As an Appetizer – Serve them as a party snack with a dipping sauce.
- With a Salad – Pair them with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- In a Wrap – Stuff them into a pita or tortilla with some veggies and sauce for a tasty lunch.
- As a Side Dish – They make a great side for grilled chicken, steak, or even pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store 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 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.
3. Can I freeze cooked broccoli cheese balls?
Yes! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Conclusion
Baked broccoli cheese balls are a flavorful, crispy, and cheesy snack that everyone will love. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these bite-sized treats are easy to make, nutritious, and absolutely delicious. With endless variations and serving possibilities, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Try them out today and discover a fun, tasty way to enjoy broccoli that even the pickiest eaters will love.