The Best Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe for Snack Lovers

Crispy and golden baked broccoli cheese balls offer a delightful twist on vegetable snacking that will make you smile.

Packed with vibrant green goodness, these little morsels blend nutrition and comfort in every bite.

Cheese lovers will adore the melty interior that complements the tender broccoli perfectly.

Crunchy on the outside and soft within, these balls serve up serious flavor without heavy frying.

Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this recipe a weeknight wonder for busy kitchens.

Serve them as an appetizer or side dish that sparks conversation and satisfies hunger.

Creative Twists on Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a celiac-friendly option.
• Vegan Alternative: Swap eggs with flax eggs and use nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese to create plant-based broccoli balls.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond meal, and use a low-carb cheese like parmesan for a keto-friendly version.
• Spicy Herb Variation: Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley to give the broccoli balls an extra kick of flavor.

Best Pairings to Enjoy with Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Create a zesty homemade ranch dressing with buttermilk, herbs, and garlic to complement the cheesy broccoli balls' rich flavor.
• Select a light Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the cheese's richness and enhances the broccoli's subtle earthiness.
• Toss mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette to provide a bright, refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy appetizer.
• Blend sriracha sauce and mayonnaise for a kick that adds exciting heat and complexity to the broccoli cheese balls.

Storage Tips to Keep Broccoli Cheese Balls Tasty

• Refrigerate: Store leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, keeping them fresh and tasty.
• Freeze: Carefully place cooled broccoli cheese balls in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, spread balls on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy edges return.
• Reheat Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 350°F, place balls in basket without overcrowding, and heat for 4-5 minutes until warm and crisp on the outside.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen broccoli completely and pat dry before using to prevent excess moisture.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written. To make gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

• Can I prepare these broccoli cheese balls ahead of time?

You can prepare the mixture and form balls in advance, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked balls for up to one month.

• What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is recommended, but you can also use monterey jack, gouda, or parmesan for different flavor profiles.

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls That Satisfy Cravings

• Boost Family Nutrition: Pack these broccoli cheese balls with hidden vegetables that kids will love, making healthy eating fun and delicious.
• Quick Kitchen Hero: Prepare these crispy bites in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous snack cravings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Impress guests at potlucks, game days, or casual gatherings with these cheesy, golden-brown treats that vanish quickly from the plate.
• Versatile Cooking Technique: Bake instead of fry for a lighter option that doesn't compromise on crunch or flavor, appealing to health-conscious food lovers.

Ingredients for Delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that provides a hearty base for these cheesy balls.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and flavorful cheese that melts beautifully and adds rich taste to the recipe.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and create a cohesive texture.
• Breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy exterior and help hold the balls together.

• Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Add depth of flavor and enhance the overall taste of the broccoli cheese balls.

• Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal of the broccoli cheese balls from the baking sheet and prevents sticking.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Perfectly

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400°F and grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Blanch The Broccoli

Boil water in a pot and toss in your chopped broccoli. Let it dance in the hot water for 2 minutes, then quickly drain and cool.

Chop the broccoli into tiny pieces so it blends perfectly.

Step 3: Mix The Magic

• Blanched broccoli
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir everything together until it’s well combined and looks like a tasty treasure.

Step 4: Shape The Balls

Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls about one inch wide. Place them neatly on the prepared baking sheet, giving each ball some breathing room.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the balls turn a gorgeous golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Pull out your broccoli cheese balls and let them cool for a moment. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce – marinara, ranch, or whatever makes your taste buds dance!

Helpful Tips to Master Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Blanch broccoli quickly to maintain vibrant color and prevent overcooking, ensuring a crisp texture in the cheese balls.
• Use freshly grated cheddar for maximum flavor and better melting properties compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Roll balls gently and evenly to achieve uniform cooking and consistent crispy exterior on all sides.
• Try additional herbs like parsley or chives to enhance the broccoli cheese balls' overall taste profile.
• Allow balls to cool slightly before serving to help them hold their shape and prevent burning your mouth.

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cheesy broccoli balls combine crispy exterior with creamy interior, offering a delightful appetizer. Garden-fresh ingredients and simple techniques help home cooks craft these irresistible bites you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (finely chopped)
• 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Submerge broccoli in rapidly boiling water for precisely 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to halt cooking process.
3. Thoroughly drain broccoli and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4. Finely chop the blanched broccoli into small, uniform pieces to ensure even texture.
5. Combine chopped broccoli with cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl.
6. Gently fold ingredients together until well incorporated, ensuring balanced distribution of flavors.
7. Using clean hands, roll the mixture into compact, golf ball-sized spheres, applying consistent pressure to help them hold shape.
8. Arrange broccoli cheese balls on prepared baking sheet, leaving slight space between each to promote even browning.
9. Slide baking sheet into preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating midway to achieve uniform golden-brown exterior.
10. Remove from oven when balls are crispy and heated through, with a delectable golden crust.
11. Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving alongside your preferred dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Boost flavor by using aged sharp cheddar for more intense cheese taste.
• Ensure broccoli is thoroughly drained to prevent soggy balls that won’t crisp properly.
• Create gluten-free version by substituting breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
• Experiment with additional herbs like fresh parsley or thyme to enhance overall taste profile.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 13 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg