Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Cooking spray

Looking for a crowd-pleasing, veggie-packed appetizer that everyone will beg you to bring to the next get-together? Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are your new secret weapon! Imagine tender broccoli florets and gooey melted cheese wrapped in a crisp, golden shell – all baked (not fried) for an irresistibly snackable dish. Whether you’re serving picky kids, vegetarians, or just craving a seriously delicious way to eat more greens, these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls hit the spot every single time.

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be glad to know that the ingredients for these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are wonderfully simple, but each one plays a vital role for maximum flavor and just the right texture. Think of each item as a key player bringing crunch, softness, color, or that extra hit of cheesy goodness!

Broccoli florets: Packed with nutrients and color, these form the tasty, hearty base of every bite.
Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and hold each ball together while bringing that essential crispiness.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers big, bold cheesy flavor and a creamy melt with every bite.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory kick that sharpens the overall taste.
Eggs: Help bind everything, ensuring your cheese balls stay intact and tender inside.
All-purpose flour: Works with the eggs to give just the right structure to the mixture.
Garlic powder: Adds fragrant depth and a subtle boost to the broccoli.
Onion powder: Enhances savory notes without overpowering the delicate broccoli flavor.
Salt and pepper: Bring out all the best notes in the cheese and veggies – season to your liking!
Cooking spray: Keeps the cheese balls from sticking and helps them attain that golden baked finish.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli florets for 3 to 5 minutes until they’re just tender, but still bright green and full of flavor. Let them cool, then chop them very finely – this is key for evenly textured Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. You want small bits, not big chunks, for the perfect bite every time!

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Crack in the eggs, sprinkle over the flour, then season with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands (my personal favorite!) to blend everything. The mixture should come together and feel cohesive – neither too dry nor too sticky.

Step 3: Shape the Balls

Now comes the fun part! Pinch off pieces of the mixture and roll them into one-inch balls, setting them on a parchment-lined or well-greased baking sheet as you go. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round; that rustic look is part of the homemade charm. Consistent size helps everything bake evenly, so aim for about a tablespoon of mixture per ball.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop those trays into your hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for golden edges and a crisp, sizzling surface that gives way to tender, cheesy broccoli inside. If you love extra crunch, switch your oven to broil for the last one to two minutes – just keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Let the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls cool for a few minutes so no one burns their fingers. Serve them up while still warm for maximum stretchy cheese factor! They’re absolutely irresistible with a bowl of marinara, ranch, or even your favorite hot sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Garnishes

For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle over a shower of chopped fresh parsley or chives just before serving. A little shaved Parmesan on top puts these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls right over the top! If you want some zing, add a squeeze of lemon or a dash of red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

These cheesy bites are a fantastic sidekick for soup (imagine dunking one into tomato soup!) or as part of a vegetarian platter alongside sliced veggies and hummus. They pair beautifully with simple salads, pasta, or even as a side to grilled proteins, making them truly versatile.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls into a party showstopper by serving them skewered on toothpicks, nestled into mini lettuce cups, or stacked on a pretty platter with an assortment of dips. For family dinner, pile them high in a big bowl and let everyone dig in with their favorite sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls left (which, honestly, is a rarity!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. They make a tasty grab-and-go snack straight from the fridge or packed in a lunchbox!

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? Arrange baked and cooled cheese balls on a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to two months. Perfect for busy weeks when you need a wholesome, homemade snack at your fingertips.

Reheating

To enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven taste again, warm your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls in a 350°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy outside. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps them crispy!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Just thaw it first and squeeze out any excess moisture with a kitchen towel before chopping – this ensures your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls stay crisp instead of soggy.

What cheeses work best in this recipe?

Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp provolone for a twist. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese for that craveable texture!

How can I make these gluten-free?

Swap out the regular breadcrumbs and flour for gluten-free versions – easy substitutions that won’t affect flavor or texture.

Can I prep the mixture ahead of time?

Yes! Mix everything and shape the balls, then cover and store in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Pop them in the oven fresh when you’re ready to wow your guests.

Do these work as a main dish?

Definitely. Pile Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls high next to a grain like quinoa or couscous, add a big salad, and you have a hearty, veggie-forward meal everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

Give these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls a try and watch them disappear! Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding family, or just treating yourself to a feel-good snack, these golden, cheesy bites are pure comfort – and they’re bound to become a regular in your kitchen. Happy snacking!

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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe