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
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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure smooth release of the broccoli cheese balls.
- 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.
- Thoroughly blend the ingredients using a fork or spatula, working to create a cohesive mixture that holds together well when shaped.
- Gently form compact, uniform spheres approximately 1-inch in diameter, pressing the mixture firmly to prevent crumbling during baking.
- Arrange the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even heat circulation and crisp exterior development.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 22-24 minutes, rotating the tray midway to promote consistent golden-brown coloration and crispy texture.
- 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.
- 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