Why You’ll Love Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

There are many reasons to love these baked broccoli cheese balls. First, they combine the best of both worlds: cheesy goodness and healthy broccoli. They’re an excellent way to get in a serving of vegetables while satisfying your craving for something cheesy and crunchy. Plus, by baking them instead of frying, they’re lighter and less greasy, making them a healthier option. The combination of garlic, cheese, and herbs elevates the flavor, while the broccoli adds a nutritious and hearty element. These cheese balls are also super easy to make and perfect for meal prepping or serving at your next gathering.

Ingredients

2 cups of broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup of finely chopped onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, combine the steamed and chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix everything together until fully combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when formed into balls.
Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes approximately 12-15 broccoli cheese balls.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar cheese for other varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Add Protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon bits to the mixture for an extra protein boost.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to customize the flavor. You can also add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, use a dairy-free cheese and flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the broccoli cheese balls before baking. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
Reheating: Reheat the cheese balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also microwave them, though they won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before chopping and adding it to the mixture.

2. Can I fry the broccoli cheese balls instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the cheese balls in hot oil for a crispier texture. However, baking them is a healthier alternative with less oil.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broccoli cheese balls in advance. You can either refrigerate them before baking or freeze them for later use.

4. Can I substitute the breadcrumbs for something else?

If you need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.

5. How do I prevent the cheese balls from falling apart?

Make sure to thoroughly mix all the ingredients and allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes before forming the balls. The eggs and breadcrumbs help bind everything together.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the mixture?

Yes, you can mix in other vegetables like spinach, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition.

7. Are these broccoli cheese balls suitable for kids?

Yes, these broccoli cheese balls are a great way to get kids to eat more vegetables, as the cheese makes them flavorful and fun to eat.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of your favorites for a unique taste.

9. Can I bake these on a wire rack?

Yes, using a wire rack will help ensure that the cheese balls cook evenly on all sides and stay crispy.

10. How can I make these spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a small amount of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect combination of healthy and delicious. They’re easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a way to get more veggies into your diet, these cheesy, crispy bites are a fantastic choice. With endless variations and easy storage, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your household!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

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These crispy, baked broccoli cheese balls are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer, perfect for kids and adults alike. Packed with nutritious broccoli and gooey cheese, they’re easy to make and a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or meal prepping, these broccoli cheese balls will surely be a hit!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12-14 broccoli cheese balls
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease with a little olive oil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until everything is fully combined and the mixture is slightly sticky.
Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly brush the top of each broccoli ball with a little olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside, flipping halfway through.
Let the broccoli cheese balls cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra crunch, you can coat the balls in additional breadcrumbs before baking.
These can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like shredded carrots, for added flavor and nutrition.