Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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; Cooking spray

Published: July 8, 2025

by eva

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious snack that combines crispy texture with cheesy goodness, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy appetizer, or need a quick side dish, these veggie-packed balls deliver on flavor and nutrition. They are easy to prepare and will impress both kids and adults alike.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these baked broccoli cheese balls can be whipped up in no time.
Flavor-Packed – The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese gives these snacks a rich, cheesy flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Snack – Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun addition to lunchboxes.
Healthy Ingredients – Packed with broccoli, these bites are a nutritious way to sneak in some veggies.
Crispy Texture – Baking instead of frying means you get all the crunch without the extra oil.

Tools and Preparation

To make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you will need to create this scrumptious snack.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Steamer or pot for steaming broccoli
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Baking sheet – A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning for your broccoli cheese balls.

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 heats up, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Once steamed, allow them to cool slightly before finely chopping them.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour. Season your mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place each ball onto a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet for easy removal after baking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. For an extra crispy finish, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes—just be sure to watch closely so they don’t burn.

Step 5: Serve

Let the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls cool slightly before serving warm with marinara or ranch dip. Enjoy!

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked broccoli cheese balls are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick appetizer, these bites are sure to please. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Dipping Sauces

Marinara Sauce – A classic pairing, marinara adds a tangy flavor that complements the cheesy goodness.
Ranch Dressing – Creamy ranch offers a cool contrast to the warm, crispy balls.
Honey Mustard – This sweet and tangy dip enhances the savory flavors of the cheese balls.

As Part of a Platter

Vegetable Platter – Arrange with fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a colorful display.
Cheese Board – Include assorted cheeses and crackers for an elevated snack experience.
Mixed Appetizer Tray – Combine with other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or mini quiches.

In Salads

Spinach Salad – Toss these cheese balls into a fresh spinach salad for added texture and flavor.
Caesar Salad – Crumble over a Caesar salad for a twist on the traditional recipe.

How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

To ensure your baked broccoli cheese balls turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

Use Fresh Broccoli – Freshly steamed broccoli provides the best texture and flavor.
Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the balls light and fluffy.
Chill Before Baking – Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape better.
Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to add herbs or spices based on your taste preferences for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked broccoli cheese balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the cheesy snack perfectly.
Stuffed Peppers – These add a hearty element and can be filled with rice or quinoa.
Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw brings freshness and contrasts well with the warm bites.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad can balance out the richness of the cheese balls while adding nutrition.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges make for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies enhance the meal with vibrant colors and flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for.

Not chopping broccoli finely enough: If the broccoli is too chunky, the balls may not hold together well. Make sure to chop it into very small pieces.
Skipping the binding ingredients: Omitting eggs or breadcrumbs can lead to crumbly balls. Always include these essential ingredients for better texture.
Overbaking: Leaving the cheese balls in the oven too long can make them dry. Keep an eye on them, especially during the last few minutes of baking.
Under-seasoning: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland bites. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before rolling into balls.
Using stale breadcrumbs: Old breadcrumbs can ruin the flavor. Always use fresh breadcrumbs for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Place cooled cheese balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but this may make them less crispy.
Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a small amount of oil until warmed and crispy on the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy snacks made from finely chopped broccoli mixed with cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They make a great appetizer or side dish.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add different cheeses or spices based on your preferences. Experimenting with flavors can make these bites even more delightful.

How do I ensure my Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls stay together?

The key is using enough binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs. Make sure your mixture is well combined before rolling into balls.

Are Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls healthy?

Yes! They’re packed with broccoli and can be made healthier by using whole grain breadcrumbs or reducing cheese if desired.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are not only delicious but also versatile. They serve as a fantastic appetizer or side dish that everyone will love. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card