Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun way to sneak extra veggies into your day, look no further than these perfectly crispy, gooey, and utterly irresistible Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. This recipe takes fresh, vibrant broccoli, mixes it with melting cheddar and savory Parmesan, and wraps it all together in a golden breadcrumb crust for the ideal bite-sized snack or starter. Trust me, whether you’re making these for a game night, holiday gathering, or just a healthy after-school treat, everyone will be coming back for seconds (and thirds).
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls shine is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. Each one plays its part, bringing flavor, texture, or color that turns basic broccoli into something truly special. Here’s everything you need to make your new favorite snack.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups, steamed and finely chopped): Steaming softens the broccoli for easy mixing and keeps the balls tender and vibrant green.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Cheddar melts into gooey pockets and adds sharp, classic flavor.
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, plus extra for coating): This keeps everything together and creates a crisp, golden exterior.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Parmesan boosts the umami and gives each bite a salty, cheesy punch.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs bind all the ingredients so your cheese balls stay together as they bake.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Garlic brings a warm, savory aroma and depth of flavor.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle sweetness and reinforces the savory notes.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of pepper provides just the right amount of zip.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out all the flavors in the mix.
- Cooking spray or olive oil: For giving an irresistible golden crunch when baking.
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Prep Your Broccoli
Start by steaming your broccoli florets until they’re just tender and brilliantly green. Once cooled, finely chop them; the smaller the pieces, the easier your cheese balls will hold together. This not only guarantees a perfect texture, but also evenly distributes that lovely broccoli flavor throughout each bite.
Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine your cooled, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Get your hands in there or use a spatula to make sure everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture should stick together easily when pressed—don’t be afraid to give it a little squeeze to check!
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Take about a tablespoon and a half of mixture and roll it between your palms into 1 1/2-inch balls. If you love an extra crispy coating (and who doesn’t?), roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs before moving to the next step. This not only adds crunch but also makes these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls irresistibly golden.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange your broccoli cheese balls evenly on the sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil—this is the secret to that perfectly crisp oven-baked finish! Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning each ball halfway through so all sides become beautifully golden and set.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re golden brown and firm, take them straight from the oven and serve warm. Pair these bites with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, marinara, or even a garlicky Greek yogurt dip will take your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls right over the top.
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Garnishes
Add an extra pop of color and flavor by scattering freshly chopped parsley, basil, or a sprinkle of Parmesan over the hot cheese balls before serving. A drizzle of tangy ranch, sriracha mayo, or honey mustard makes them even more inviting and adds a punch that’ll have guests reaching for “just one more.”
Side Dishes
While these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls can easily be the star of your snack spread, they also shine as a side alongside grilled chicken, soup, or tossed salads. For parties, stack them next to an array of fresh veggies, roasted potatoes, or pita chips for a fun, dippable platter.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful touch at gatherings, skewer each cheese ball with a colorful cocktail pick. Serve them atop mini toasts, stuff them inside pita pockets with crisp lettuce, or tuck them into lunchboxes for a veggie-packed surprise. You could even drop a few into a rich tomato soup for cheesy crouton magic!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls left (they go fast!), just let them cool to room temperature first. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful, making weekday snacking a breeze.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled cheese balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months. Whenever cravings strike, you’re moments away from a quick snack!
Reheating
Reheat your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls straight from the fridge or freezer. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes (or a few extra minutes if frozen) until hot and re-crisped. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that irresistible crunch on the outside.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before chopping—it’ll help keep your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls from getting soggy and makes prep even easier.
What kind of cheese works best in these?
Cheddar gives the best melt and classic taste, but you can get creative: try mozzarella for extra stretch, pepper jack for a kick, or a blend of your favorites. Parmesan is a must for its salty punch!
Can I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check your cheese labels. The end result will be just as delicious and crisp.
What are good dipping sauces for these?
Ranch and marinara are great go-tos, but don’t stop there. Try spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a cooling tzatziki for a Mediterranean twist. The possibilities are endless!
Can I prep these ahead for parties?
Yes! Shape the mixture into balls and refrigerate (or freeze) until ready to bake. If frozen, just give them a few extra minutes in the oven. Freshly baked, hot-from-the-oven Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are always a hit with guests.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re looking for a tasty crowd-pleaser or a clever way to amp up your veggie intake, give these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls a try. They’re crunchy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to disappear fast—so go ahead and make a double batch, just in case!
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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and nutritious appetizer or snack. Packed with cheesy goodness and the goodness of broccoli, they are perfect for parties or a tasty treat any time.
Ingredients
Broccoli Mixture:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Additional:
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Shape into balls: Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and coat with extra breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Place on baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or try different cheeses.
- Balls can be frozen and baked from frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
