Name: Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped broccoli; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper (to taste); Cooking spray (as needed for greasing)

Baked broccoli cheese balls offer a delicious way to enjoy more greens, combining fresh broccoli with cheddar and Parmesan in crispy, cheesy bites. Their crunchy exterior contrasts perfectly with the gooey, savory center, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.

As a baked option, they’re a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor. Ideal for party platters or light meals, these bites are as versatile as they are tasty.

A crowd-pleasing way to make veggies fun and flavorful!

Why These Cheese Balls Are a Great Snack or Side

Save to Pinterest

Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with cheesy broccoli for a healthy twist.
Easy Ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
Healthier Alternative: Baked, not fried, for less oil.
Kid-Friendly: A fun way to enjoy veggies with cheesy goodness.

Key Ingredients for Cheesy, Veggie-Packed Bites

Broccoli florets: Use fresh or frozen, steamed to tender-crisp; finely chop for better blending and vibrant color.
Breadcrumbs: Bind ingredients and add texture; plain or seasoned breadcrumbs work well.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar provides a creamy, tangy flavor; sharp cheddar is best for stronger taste.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty note and enhances the crispy exterior of the dish.
Eggs: Bind the mixture, helping the broccoli and cheese balls hold their shape during baking.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure to prevent the balls from falling apart.
Garlic powder and onion powder: Add savory depth to complement the broccoli and cheese flavors.
Salt and pepper: Enhance the overall flavor of the dish with these basic seasonings.
Cooking spray: Lightly grease the baking sheet to prevent sticking and ensure crispiness.

Instructions for Baking Broccoli Cheese Balls

Save to Pinterest

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the cheese balls.
Steam the Broccoli: Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
Tip: Use a steamer basket or microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water. If microwaving, cover with a lid or plastic wrap to trap the steam.
Cool and Chop: Allow the steamed broccoli to cool for a few minutes, then finely chop to help it blend well with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour.
Season the Mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl to boost the flavor.
Mix Thoroughly: Stir until the mixture is well combined and holds together without being too dry or too wet.
Tip: Mixing by hand can ensure a more thorough distribution of ingredients.

Step 3: Form and Bake the Cheese Balls

Form the Cheese Balls: Roll small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls for an ideal bite-size.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place on the Sheet: Arrange the cheese balls about an inch apart on the baking sheet for even cooking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese balls are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye on them.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cheese balls cool slightly to set.
Serve: Enjoy the cheese balls warm as a snack, appetizer, or side. Pair with marinara, ranch, or a tangy yogurt dip for extra flavor!

Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion

Save to Pinterest

Steam broccoli until tender-crisp: Avoid over-steaming to prevent mushy broccoli, ensuring a firm texture for the cheese balls.
Adjust consistency as needed: If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, incorporate a small splash of water or an extra egg.
Broil for extra crispiness: Finish with a quick broil to achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior without the need for frying.
Customize your cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda to tailor the flavor to your liking.