Print

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 17 reviews

Deliciously crispy baked broccoli cheese balls made with tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, coated with breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack, these cheesy bites combine great texture with bold flavors, ideal for family gatherings or a nutritious treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking and help crisp the balls.
  2. Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets for about 5-7 minutes or until tender. Once steamed, finely chop the broccoli and allow it to cool slightly for easier handling and better incorporation into the mixture.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the mixture is well blended and cohesive.
  4. Form Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls approximately 1-2 inches in diameter. Then roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior coating.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Place the coated balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly so they have room to crisp up without sticking together. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to enhance browning and crispiness.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the balls halfway through the cooking time to ensure even golden browning on all sides.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • For a crispier exterior, you can double roll the balls in breadcrumbs before baking.
  • Make sure the broccoli is well-drained after steaming to avoid soggy balls.
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture, or panko for extra crunchiness.
  • These can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; add a few extra minutes to bake if taken directly from the fridge.
  • Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
  • To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheese balls, baked appetizer, healthy snack, vegetarian snack, cheesy broccoli bites

Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/baked-broccoli-cheese-balls-recipe/