Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

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Introduction

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer that combine the savory goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheese. These golden, crispy bites are perfectly baked to maintain their tender inside while offering a crunchy exterior. Packed with flavor, these cheese balls are a great way to sneak in veggies and make a tasty treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a quick snack, or a side dish, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls will satisfy both kids and adults alike.


I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering. The combination of the cheese and broccoli created a perfect balance of flavors, and everyone loved how crispy the outside was while still being soft and cheesy on the inside. What’s great about these cheese balls is their versatility—you can customize them with different types of cheese, add a touch of garlic or herbs for extra flavor, or even serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.


Despite their impressive flavor, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can quickly whip up a batch and bake them to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a fun party appetizer, or a side dish that’s a hit with everyone, these cheesy broccoli bites are sure to impress!Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer that combine the savory goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheese. These golden, crispy bites are perfectly baked to maintain their tender inside while offering a crunchy exterior. Packed with flavor, these cheese balls are a great way to sneak in veggies and make a tasty treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a quick snack, or a side dish, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls will satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Perfect for:

  • Appetizers for parties
  • Snack for movie nights
  • School lunches
  • Vegetarian-friendly meals
  • Family gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls will become your go-to snack:

  • Deliciously Cheesy: The melty cheese combines perfectly with the broccoli, giving each bite a creamy, savory flavor.
  • Healthy Veggie Boost: You get all the benefits of broccoli, packed with vitamins and fiber, hidden in a fun, flavorful ball.
  • Baked, Not Fried: These cheese balls are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor.
  • Perfectly Crispy: The outside becomes golden and crisp while the inside stays soft and cheesy.
  • Kid-Friendly: A great way to introduce more veggies to kids without them even realizing it!

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 20-24 cheese balls
  • Calories per serving (1 ball): Approximately 80-100 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:

For the Balls:

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (about 1 medium head)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat or panko)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Coating:

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (for rolling)
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Broccoli: Full of nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli gives these cheese balls a healthy twist.
  • Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness and a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the broccoli.
  • Breadcrumbs: Help bind the mixture and give the cheese balls a crispy exterior.
  • Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the mixture hold together while baking.
  • Garlic and Onion Powder: Enhance the flavor and make the cheese balls more aromatic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:

Prepare the Broccoli:

  1. Cook the Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets for about 5 minutes, until tender. Drain well and chop finely once cooled.
  2. Dry the Broccoli: Squeeze out any excess moisture from the cooked broccoli by placing it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This helps prevent soggy cheese balls.

Prepare the Mixture:

  1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
  2. Form the Balls: Scoop out a tablespoon-sized portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Continue forming the rest of the mixture into balls.

Coat the Balls:

  1. Roll in Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in the remaining ½ cup of breadcrumbs until evenly coated. If desired, sprinkle a little paprika on top for added color and flavor.

Bake the Cheese Balls:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange the Balls on a Baking Sheet: Place the breaded cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Space them about 1 inch apart to ensure even baking.
  3. Bake Until Golden: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip them halfway through the baking time for even crispness.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the cheese balls cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect on their own or served with a dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, or a tangy yogurt dip.

How to Serve

  • With Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or sour cream for a creamy contrast.
  • On a Party Platter: Place them on a platter with fresh veggies, crackers, and other bite-sized appetizers.
  • As a Side Dish: Pair with a fresh salad or soup for a balanced meal.
  • On a Game Day Table: Perfect as an appetizer at a sports gathering, alongside other finger foods.
  • As a Snack: Great for an afternoon snack or lunchbox treat for kids.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure broccoli is dry: Squeeze out excess moisture to avoid sogginess.
  • Use Panko breadcrumbs: For extra crunch and crispiness.
  • Custom cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan.
  • Make in bulk: Freeze unbaked balls to have them ready for later.
  • Add spices: Red pepper flakes or garlic powder can give extra flavor.
  • Serve with dipping sauces: Ranch, marinara, or sour cream enhance the flavors.

Recipe Variations

  1. Cheddar and Spinach Cheese Balls: Swap out half the broccoli for fresh spinach.
  2. Spicy Broccoli Cheese Balls: Add red pepper flakes for some heat.
  3. Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheese Balls: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  4. Cheesy Broccoli Potato Balls: Add mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
  5. Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Balls: Mix in cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
  6. Vegan Broccoli Cheese Balls: Use vegan cheese and breadcrumbs.
  7. Broccoli Bacon Cheese Balls: Add crispy bacon bits for an extra savory flavor.
  8. Broccoli Cheese Zucchini Balls: Swap in grated zucchini for a different veggie twist.
  9. Broccoli Cheese Sweet Potato Balls: Use mashed sweet potato for a slightly sweeter flavor.
  10. Broccoli Cheese Cauliflower Balls: Try cauliflower for a milder veggie taste.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked cheese balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to crisp them up.

Special Equipment

  • Food processor (for chopping broccoli finely)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or non-stick spray
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon for shaping

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make these ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the cheese balls, refrigerate them, and bake later.
  2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, just ensure it’s well-drained and chopped finely.
  3. Can I fry these instead of baking?
    Yes, you can fry them in hot oil for a golden, crispy exterior.
  4. Can I use different cheese?
    Absolutely! Mozzarella, gouda, or a cheese blend all work well.
  5. Are these gluten-free?
    Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.
  6. Can I freeze them?
    Yes, freeze unbaked cheese balls and bake directly from frozen for 20-25 minutes.
  7. Can I add meat to these?
    Yes, crispy bacon bits or shredded chicken can be added for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate combination of cheesy, crunchy goodness and the healthy benefits of broccoli, making them a fun and nutritious snack. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy inside, these little bites are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a satisfying treat for a quiet afternoon.

Perfect as an appetizer or a snack, they’re a great way to sneak in some veggies while indulging in all the flavors you love. Whether served at a party or enjoyed on your own, these cheesy broccoli balls are sure to be a hit with everyone!

I’d love to see how your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!

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