Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating); 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; olive oil spray for baking

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If you’re on the hunt for an irresistible snack that’s both comforting and packed with veggies, let me introduce you to these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. Imagine crisp, golden bites with a gooey, cheesy center and a pop of fresh green broccoli in every mouthful. This dish proves that healthy and delicious can go hand in hand. Whether you’re whipped up in weeknight dinner chaos, feeding a picky crowd, or planning an impressive potluck appetizer, these little wonders will be your go-to. They vanish quickly… so don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Great recipes start with simple, flavorful ingredients, and each one here helps create the irresistible taste, creamy texture, and beautiful color that make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls so craveable. Grab these staples and let’s get rolling—literally!

Finely chopped cooked broccoli (2 cups): Steamed or blanched, broccoli brings a pop of color and nutrients, plus a delightful earthy flavor.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Cheddar melts perfectly and delivers that bold cheesy goodness everyone loves.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a punch of salty, nutty flavor that really sets these balls apart.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup + more for coating): The secret to a crisp shell and tender interior—try panko for extra crunch!
Large egg (1): Acts as the binder, holding everything together into perfect, scoopable bites.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the mixture with rich, aromatic depth.
Onion powder (1/4 tsp): Delivers a gentle kick of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds the right hint of warmth and spice.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Brings all the flavors into balance.
Chopped fresh parsley (2 tbsp): Gives freshness, color, and a subtle herbal lift.
Olive oil spray: Helps the broccoli cheese balls brown beautifully without excess oil.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which is the sweet spot for getting that irresistible golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me, this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, especially when dealing with cheesy recipes like these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls.

Step 2: Mix Up the Broccoli Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, add your finely chopped, cooked broccoli, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, the egg, minced garlic, onion powder, pepper, salt, and parsley. Grab a spatula (or your clean hands), and mix everything until thoroughly combined. You want a cohesive mixture that holds together when pressed, so all those cheesy bits and breadcrumbs cling to every broccoli fleck.

Step 3: Shape and Coat the Balls

Scoop out heaping tablespoons of your mixture—think generous, bite-sized portions. Roll them gently with your hands to form small, even balls. Spread some extra breadcrumbs on a plate and give each ball a quick roll; this adds another layer of crunch that makes each bite even more satisfying.

Step 4: Arrange and Spray

Place the formed balls onto your parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for even browning. Lightly spray the tops of your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with olive oil; it helps them crisp up without turning greasy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Halfway through, gently turn each ball for that glorious, all-over golden color. They’re ready when they’re deeply golden and crisp outside, and wonderfully melty inside—resist the urge to eat them all straight from the oven!

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Garnishes

Top with an extra sprinkle of chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan for that finishing touch. A dash of crushed red pepper gives a hint of heat, or try a squeeze of lemon to brighten up each bite. These little extras not only add color but a pop of fresh flavor.

Side Dishes

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are versatile—pair them with a crisp salad, a hearty soup, or even some roasted veggies for a balanced plate. They’re also brilliant alongside pasta or served as an appetizer before pizza night. The flavors are gentle enough to mingle with almost anything.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile them on a platter with a trio of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, and honey mustard for a crowd-pleasing party snack. For an elegant twist, set each ball in a mini lettuce cup or skewer them for a colorful appetizer tray. These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are as fun to dress up as they are to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any uneaten Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls cool completely, then pop them into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh (and delicious for snacking) for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, lay cooled cheese balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months and you can grab just a few at a time whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

Reheat Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or until hot and crispy again. In a pinch, the microwave works but expect a slightly softer texture. For best results, always re-crisp them in the oven or toaster oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before chopping. Frozen broccoli is convenient and works just as well in Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls.

What dipping sauces go best with these cheese balls?

Marinara and ranch are classic, but don’t be afraid to try honey mustard, creamy garlic dip, or even chipotle mayo for a spicy twist. The mellow flavors of Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls pair with almost anything.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes! Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or use crushed gluten-free crackers. The result is still satisfyingly crisp and tasty while staying safe for gluten-free friends.

Can I prepare these in advance for a party?

Definitely. Make and form the balls ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll in breadcrumbs, spritz with olive oil, and cook as directed—fresh, hot, and crowd-pleasing!

Are these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls kid-friendly?

Kids absolutely love them! They’re tender, cheesy, and perfect for dipping. You might even sneak in extra veggies—these bright green bites go fast at any family table.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy, wholesome, and packed with irresistible flavor, these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are calling your name. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with them as much as I have—give them a try and let the snacking (and compliments) begin!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

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4.9 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 18 balls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy appetizer or snack option. Packed with flavor from cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, they make a perfect vegetarian dish that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:

2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
olive oil spray for baking

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, pepper, salt, and parsley. Mix well.
Form balls: Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture and form into small balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs.
Bake: Place the balls on the baking sheet, spray with olive oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through.
Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!