Easy Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe Everyone Will Love

Crispy broccoli cheese balls spark joy in every bite of this crowd-pleasing snack.

Fresh ingredients combine to create a mouthwatering appetizer that surprises and delights.

Crunchy exterior gives way to a molten cheesy center packed with vibrant green goodness.

Quick and simple preparation means you can whip up these irresistible morsels in minutes.

Small gatherings or large parties become instantly more exciting with these savory treats.

Nutritious and indulgent, these balls offer the perfect balance of comfort and flavor.

You’ll want to make extra – trust me, they disappear fast!

Why Broccoli Cheese Balls Are So Popular

• Craft Crowd-Pleasing Appetizers: These broccoli cheese balls deliver irresistible flavor that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-favorite snack perfect for gatherings and parties.
• Master Quick Meal Prep: With straightforward mixing and shaping techniques, anyone can create these delicious bites without complex cooking skills, making them ideal for busy home cooks.
• Boost Nutritional Value: Packed with protein from cheese and eggs, plus vitamins from broccoli, these bite-sized treats offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried appetizers while maintaining incredible taste.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows simple ingredient swaps or additions like herbs, different cheese types, or spices to match personal preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Broccoli: A nutrient-packed green vegetable that provides a fresh and slightly crunchy texture to the cheese balls.
• Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and flavorful cheese that melts beautifully and adds richness to the mixture.
• Bread Crumbs: Helps bind the ingredients together and creates a crispy exterior when baked.

• Parmesan Cheese, Mayonnaise, Egg: Contribute to the creamy texture and help hold the cheese balls together with additional flavor.

• Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall taste and bring out the savory notes of the broccoli cheese balls.

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375F (190C) and grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick magic.

Step 2: Create The Flavor Mixture

• Chopped broccoli
• Cheddar cheese
• Bread crumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Mayonnaise
• Egg
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir everything together until the ingredients become best friends and blend perfectly.

Step 3: Shape Your Cheesy Bites

Use your hands to roll the mixture into cute little balls. Make them bite-sized and compact so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Bake To Golden Perfection

Carefully place the broccoli cheese balls on your prepared baking sheet. Slide them into the preheated oven and let them transform for 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Check For Crispy Goodness

Watch for a beautiful golden-brown color and a crispy exterior. This means your broccoli cheese balls are ready to rock!

Step 6: Serve And Devour

Pull the baking sheet out and let the balls cool for a minute. Then dive in while they’re hot and enjoy these cheesy, veggie-packed morsels of deliciousness.

Cooking Tips for Crispy Cheese Balls

• Grate cheese fresh for the most melty, rich flavor that blends perfectly with broccoli.
• Chop broccoli into tiny pieces to ensure even cooking and a smooth texture in each ball.
• Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and consistent binding.
• Add extra herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of fresh flavor and increased nutrition.
• Freeze uncooked balls for up to a month, allowing quick preparation when unexpected guests arrive.

Variations to Customize Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: Add diced jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce to the original mixture for a fiery kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Balls: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh basil, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Bacon Cheddar Fusion: Incorporate crispy bacon bits and extra sharp cheddar cheese to enhance the savory taste.
• Ranch-Infused Veggie Balls: Blend in ranch seasoning mix and add finely chopped spinach for an herbal, creamy variation.

Perfect Pairings for Cheese Balls

• Complement Creamy Cheese Balls with Zesty Dipping Sauces
• Craft a tangy ranch or spicy sriracha mayo to elevate the broccoli cheese balls' rich flavor profile and add an exciting kick.
• Pair with Cool Beverage Companions
• Select crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or light craft beers that cut through the cheesy richness and refresh the palate.
• Match with Complementary Side Salads
• Create a light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the balls' dense texture and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Serve Alongside Protein-Rich Appetizers
• Combine with grilled chicken skewers or cold cut platters to transform these cheese balls into a more substantial starter or party spread.

Storing Broccoli Cheese Balls Properly

• Place cooled broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Arrange completely cooled balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months.
• Preheat oven to 350F, spread balls on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy exterior returns.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between bursts to prevent overcooking. Typically requires 1-2 intervals for even warming.

FAQs About Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Are these broccoli cheese balls healthy?

These balls pack nutritional benefits with broccoli’s vitamins and minerals, plus protein from cheese. They’re baked, not fried, making them a healthier appetizer or snack option.

• Can I make these balls gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. This will maintain the texture while making the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

• How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?

Ensure ingredients are well mixed and chilled before shaping. Press the mixture firmly when forming balls, and use cold cheese and eggs to help bind the ingredients together effectively.

Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Savory broccoli cheese balls emerge as a crowd-pleasing appetizer that blends crispy exteriors with creamy, cheesy interiors. Perfectly golden and irresistible, these bite-sized delights will make you the star of any gathering.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (475 ml) finely chopped broccoli
• 1 cup (240 ml) grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (240 ml) bread crumbs

Cheese and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
• 1 egg

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure smooth release of the broccoli cheese balls.
2. Gather all ingredients in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of chopped broccoli, cheddar, bread crumbs, parmesan, mayonnaise, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Thoroughly blend the ingredients using a fork or spatula, working to create a cohesive mixture that holds together well when shaped.
4. Gently form compact, uniform spheres approximately 1-inch in diameter, pressing the mixture firmly to prevent crumbling during baking.
5. Arrange the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even heat circulation and crisp exterior development.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 22-24 minutes, rotating the tray midway to promote consistent golden-brown coloration and crispy texture.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese balls to set and cool slightly before serving for optimal flavor and structural integrity.
8. Plate immediately while warm and crisp, offering as a delightful appetizer or side dish with optional dipping sauce.

Notes

• Boost nutrition by using whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and texture.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp provolone or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Ensure broccoli is finely chopped to help bind ingredients and create smoother balls.
• Freezer-friendly option: Prepare balls ahead, freeze uncooked, and bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 extra minutes to cooking time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 221 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg