introduction
This is an easy snack made from broccoli and cheese. The balls bake until golden and crisp. They are warm, cheesy, and good for kids and adults. If you want to learn about cheddar for best taste, see this cheddar cheese types and storage page.
why make this recipe
Make these because they are quick, healthy, and tasty. They hide vegetables in a fun bite. You can serve them as a snack, side dish, or party finger food. They use few ingredients and bake, not fry.
how to make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Preheat your oven and get the pan ready.
- Cook the broccoli until just tender, then drain and chop finely.
- Mix broccoli with breadcrumbs, cheeses, egg, and seasonings. Stir until it holds together.
- Shape into tablespoon-sized balls and place on the baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or brush each ball with oil so they brown.
- Bake 18–20 minutes until golden and slightly crisp outside.
- Serve warm with your favorite dip.
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
Directions :
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., Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain well and finely chop., 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., Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet., Lightly spray or brush the broccoli cheese balls with cooking spray or olive oil., Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the outside., Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
how to serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Serve them warm from the oven. Offer a dip like ranch, marinara, or a simple yogurt dip. Put them on a plate for kids or on a platter for guests. They pair well with soup or a salad.
how to store Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Cool completely first. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to keep them crisp. For longer storage, freeze on a tray, then move to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.
tips to make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Chop the broccoli very fine so the mixture holds together.
- Squeeze out extra water after cooking broccoli to avoid soggy balls.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture, or pulse bread in a blender.
- If the mix is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a splash of milk.
- Light oil on the outside helps them brown in the oven.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked bacon bits or chopped ham for a meaty version.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Make mini-sized balls for bite-size snacks.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain well, then chop and squeeze out extra water before mixing.
Q: Can I fry them instead of baking?
A: Yes. Fry in hot oil until golden, but baking is lighter and easier.
Q: Can I make the mixture ahead?
A: You can mix and shape the balls, then keep them in the fridge for a day before baking.
Q: How do I stop them from falling apart?
A: Make sure broccoli is dry and use enough breadcrumbs and egg so the mix holds together.
Conclusion
If you want another take on this idea, this recipe page gives a similar, tested method: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls – RecipeTin Eats.