Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that combine tender broccoli with gooey cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly crispy on the outside and cheesy inside, they make a great snack or party treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Step 2: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain well and finely chop.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
4. Step 4: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Step 5: Lightly spray or brush the broccoli cheese balls with cooking spray or olive oil.
6. Step 6: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the outside.
7. Step 7: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead.
• Add finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
• Try mixing in a bit of cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist.
• If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to help it hold shape.

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 warm and crispy. They can also be frozen before baking—freeze on a tray, then transfer to a sealed bag and bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it thoroughly before chopping and mixing to avoid excess moisture.

What dipping sauces go well with broccoli cheese balls?

They pair nicely with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, spicy mayo, or a simple garlic aioli.

Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 87 reviews

Deliciously crispy and cheesy broccoli cheese balls baked to perfection. This easy appetizer combines tender broccoli with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, coated lightly with breadcrumbs for a golden crust. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a wholesome side dish.

• Author: liam
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 20 cheese balls 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli Mixture

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Baking

• Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water, then finely chop to mix easily.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the mixture is cohesive and holds together when formed.
4. Form Balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll each into a compact ball. Arrange these evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Coat Surface: Lightly spray or brush the broccoli cheese balls with cooking spray or a small drizzle of olive oil. This helps achieve a crispy, golden crust during baking.
6. Bake: Bake the balls for 18-20 minutes, or until the outside is golden brown and crispy, ensuring the cheese inside is melted and flavorful.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli for a tasty appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Make sure to drain the broccoli very well to avoid soggy cheese balls.
• Try using gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• You can add finely diced onions or herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
• Allow the mixture to chill for 20 minutes before forming balls if it’s too soft to handle.
• These can also be frozen before baking; bake directly from frozen adding a few extra minutes.

Keywords: broccoli cheese balls, baked broccoli appetizer, cheesy broccoli bites, party snacks, vegetarian appetizer