Broccoli Cheese Balls

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate bite-sized snack—crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside. These little balls of goodness are made with fresh broccoli, a blend of cheeses, and savory seasonings, then lightly breaded and baked or fried to golden perfection. They’re a perfect way to sneak some veggies into your diet while indulging in a cheesy treat.

I first made these as a snack for a family gathering, and they disappeared so quickly! The crispy exterior pairs perfectly with the gooey, cheesy center, making them a hit with both kids and adults. What’s great about these broccoli cheese balls is how versatile they are. You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces—like ranch, marinara, or even a spicy sriracha mayo—or enjoy them on their own as a satisfying snack.

The best part is that they’re surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a batch ready in no time. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer for your next party or a tasty side dish for dinner, these broccoli cheese balls will definitely steal the show!

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Game-day snacks
• Side dishes
• Kids’ lunches
• Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Balls

Here’s why Broccoli Cheese Balls will become your new go-to snack:

• Crispy and Cheesy: The crispy exterior perfectly contrasts the warm, gooey cheese filling.
• Veggie-Packed: Sneak in some broccoli while still enjoying a delicious snack.
• Customizable: Use different cheeses or seasonings to match your preferences.
• Easy to Make: Simple to prep with basic ingredients, and they can be baked or fried.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze extras for later.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 20 balls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 70-80 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 4g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Broccoli Cheese Balls:

• 2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Cooking spray or oil (for frying or baking)

Ingredient Highlights

• Broccoli: The star of this dish, broccoli adds a mild, earthy flavor and a nutritious boost.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and provides a rich, cheesy flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor and helps bind the mixture.
• Breadcrumbs: Help hold the mixture together and give the balls a crispy coating.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Broccoli Cheese Balls:

Prepare the Mixture:

1. Preheat the Oven (if baking): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Chop the Broccoli: Finely chop the cooked broccoli to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
4. Shape the Balls: Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. If the mixture feels too sticky, add more breadcrumbs until it’s easier to handle.

Coat and Cook the Balls:

5. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in additional breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This will help create a crispy exterior.
6. Bake or Fry:
   • To Bake: Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
   • To Fry: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve Warm: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.
• As a Party Appetizer: Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at parties.
• Alongside a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• As a Side Dish: Serve with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or fish.
• With Sriracha Mayo – Serve with a spicy Sriracha mayo dip for a flavorful kick.
• On a Skewer – Skewer the balls and serve them as mini kebabs for a fun presentation.
• With Garlic Bread – Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• With a Side of Marinara Sauce – Serve the broccoli cheese balls with a rich marinara sauce for dipping.
• On a Bed of Greens – Place them on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a healthy twist.

Additional Tips for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Here are some tips to ensure your Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Shred your own for the best results.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the mixture before adding the egg to adjust the seasoning as desired.
• Chill the Mixture: If the mixture feels too soft to shape, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before forming the balls.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Recipe Variations for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Broccoli Cheese Balls:

1. Broccoli and Mozzarella Balls: Use mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy center.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Broccoli Balls: Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
3. Bacon Broccoli Cheese Balls: Mix in crispy, crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
4. Cauliflower and Broccoli Balls: Substitute half the broccoli with cauliflower for a veggie medley.
5. Italian-Style Broccoli Balls: Add Italian seasoning and serve with marinara sauce.
6. Spinach and Broccoli Balls: Mix in chopped spinach for an extra dose of greens.
7. Broccoli and Feta Balls: Use feta cheese for a tangy, Mediterranean twist.
8. Sun-Dried Tomato Broccoli Balls: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of umami flavor.
9. Air Fryer Broccoli Balls: Cook the balls in an air fryer for a healthier, crispy option.
10. Keto Broccoli Balls: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb version.

Freezing and Storage for Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Freezing: These freeze well! Place uncooked balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake or fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Special Equipment for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Here are some tools that will make preparing your Broccoli Cheese Balls easier:

• Mixing Bowls: Use different-sized bowls for mixing the ingredients and coating the balls.
• Baking Sheet: For baking the balls evenly.
• Food Processor: Optional, but great for quickly chopping the broccoli.
• Slotted Spoon: For frying and draining the balls.
• Wire Rack: For cooling baked balls to maintain their crispiness.
• Cookie Scoop: Ensures even-sized balls for consistent cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions for Broccoli Cheese Balls

1. How do I store leftover broccoli cheese balls?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
2. Can I make broccoli cheese balls without breadcrumbs?
   • Yes! You can use alternatives like crushed crackers, oat flour, or even mashed potatoes as a binder.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the broccoli cheese balls?
   • Absolutely! You can mix in other veggies like carrots, spinach, or cauliflower to make them even more nutritious.
4. Can I make these broccoli cheese balls ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare them in advance. Shape the balls and store them in the fridge or freeze them until you’re ready to bake or fry.
5. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
   • Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using it.

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Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate combo of crispy, cheesy goodness and nutritious veggies, making them the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Each bite delivers a crispy exterior with a warm, gooey center that’s packed with flavor. Whether you bake or fry them, these little bites of joy are super easy to make and absolutely irresistible.

Serve them up at your next party, or keep them all to yourself for a satisfying treat. You can even customize them with different cheeses or seasonings to suit your tastes. No matter how you make them, they’re bound to be a hit!

I’d love to see how your Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Happy cooking!