Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy snack that combines the goodness of broccoli with the comforting flavors of cheese. These cheesy bites are perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to casual family dinners. With their crispy exterior and gooey center, they offer a unique twist on traditional appetizers. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can whip them up in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make preparation a breeze.
- Flavorful: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses adds a rich taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a tasty lunch option.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with broccoli, these bites provide essential nutrients while still being delicious.
- Crispy Texture: Baking instead of frying ensures a crispy outside without the added calories from oil.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making these baked broccoli cheese balls, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Steamer or pot for steaming broccoli
- Spoon or cookie scoop for portioning
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even heat distribution while baking for optimal crispiness.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
Ingredients
A crispy, cheesy snack packed with broccoli, perfect as an appetizer or side dish. These baked broccoli cheese balls are easy to make and loaded with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets (finely chopped)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (for binding)
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs (for binding)
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for binding)
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for seasoning)
– 1/2 tsp onion powder (for seasoning)
– to taste salt and pepper
– as needed cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp for about 3–5 minutes. After steaming, allow them to cool and then finely chop.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and all-purpose flour. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Using small portions of the mixture, roll them into approximately 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes until they turn golden brown. For an extra crispy finish, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving warm. Pair your baked broccoli cheese balls with marinara or ranch dip for added flavor. Enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked broccoli cheese balls make for a delightful and versatile snack or appetizer. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that adds a rich tomato flavor.
- Ranch Dip: Creamy and tangy, perfect for those who love a smooth contrast.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who enjoy a kick, this creamy sauce offers heat and richness.
As Part of a Platter
- Vegetable Platter: Serve alongside fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a colorful spread.
- Cheese Board: Incorporate cheese balls into a cheese board with assorted cheeses and crackers.
In a Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss them on top of fresh greens with vinaigrette for added texture and flavor.
- Caesar Salad: Replace croutons with these savory bites for a cheesy twist.
How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To achieve the best baked broccoli cheese balls, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Broccoli: Use bright green florets that are firm to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Steam until tender-crisp to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes before forming balls for easier handling.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent burning while achieving golden perfection.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked broccoli cheese balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy accompaniment that complements cheesy flavors beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with dressing balances the richness of the cheese balls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crunchy on the outside, soft inside; these offer a hearty addition to your plate.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw provide contrast to cheesy bites.
- Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, this dish can enhance your meal’s health factor while being delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.
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Overcooking the Broccoli: Ensure you steam the broccoli just until tender-crisp. Overcooking will make it mushy and affect the texture of your cheese balls.
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Not Chopping Ingredients Properly: Finely chop the broccoli for even mixing. Large pieces can result in uneven cooking and a less cohesive ball.
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Skipping the Binding Agents: Don’t forget eggs and breadcrumbs—they are essential for holding the mixture together. Without them, your balls may fall apart during baking.
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Ignoring Seasoning: Season your mixture well with salt, pepper, and spices. This boosts flavor; bland cheese balls won’t be tempting.
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Baking at Incorrect Temperature: Stick to the recommended temperature of 400°F (200°C) for a perfectly crispy exterior. Too low, and they won’t brown properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Place in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
- Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently until warmed through and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls that can help clarify any doubts you may have.
Can I use frozen broccoli for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and ensure it is well-drained before chopping.
How do I make these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What dips pair well with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
These cheese balls go great with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping!
How can I customize my Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or herbs like parsley for extra flavor! You can also mix different cheeses based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are an incredible snack option that is both delicious and versatile. They serve beautifully as appetizers or side dishes, allowing room for customization based on your taste. Try experimenting with different cheeses or spices to make them uniquely yours!
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful and nutritious snack that blends the rich flavors of cheese with the vibrant goodness of broccoli. These golden, crispy bites are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they serve as an irresistible appetizer or a satisfying side dish. With their gooey center and crunchy exterior, these cheese balls will surely become a family favorite. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli until tender-crisp (3–5 minutes), then finely chop once cooled.
- In a mixing bowl, blend together the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until thoroughly mixed.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown; broil for an additional minute if desired for extra crispiness.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (25g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
