Broccoli Cheese Balls

Name: Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: July 8, 2025

by eva

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Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful and nutritious snack that everyone will love. These tasty treats feature a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center, making them the perfect way to enjoy your veggies. Ideal for parties, game days, or as an everyday snack, Broccoli Cheese Balls combine fresh broccoli with sharp cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs to create a unique flavor profile. Plus, they are simple to prepare and sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up in no time.
Kid-Friendly: These bites are a fun way to introduce vegetables to picky eaters.
Versatile Snack: Serve them as an appetizer or include them in a lunchbox for a healthy option.
Crispy Texture: The combination of breadcrumbs and cheese creates a satisfying crunch.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli, these balls offer vitamins and minerals that boost health.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Spoon or cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without mess.
Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and crispiness when baking the Broccoli Cheese Balls.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Cheese Balls

2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped into small pieces
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Broccoli Cheese Balls cook evenly and become crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If using Parmesan cheese and parsley, add them now too. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, take portions of the mixture and shape them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake the Broccoli Cheese Balls in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious snacks warm for the best flavor!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these delicious bites can complement various dishes and dining experiences.

As an Appetizer

Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Pair with a tangy yogurt-based sauce for a refreshing contrast.

In a Salad

Toss them into a fresh green salad to add protein and flavor.
Use them as a topping on Caesar salad for an exciting twist.

With Dips

Offer a variety of dips, such as ranch or spicy aioli, to cater to different tastes.
Create a cheese platter that includes Broccoli Cheese Balls for an elegant touch.

As Part of a Platter

Arrange them on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats and olives.
Include fresh veggies for dipping, creating an inviting snack spread.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

To ensure your Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh broccoli: Freshly cooked broccoli provides the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overmix: Combine ingredients gently to maintain the balls’ structure.
Adjust seasonings: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and spices as needed.
Preheat your oven: Ensuring your oven is hot helps achieve that crispy outer layer.
Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Chill before baking: Letting the mixture chill for about 30 minutes can help the balls hold their shape better during baking.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls make a great addition to any meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair beautifully with them.

Garlic Bread: Toasty garlic bread complements the cheesy goodness of the balls.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings freshness and balances the richness of the cheese balls.
Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture.
Steamed Rice: Simple steamed rice gives a neutral base to enjoy alongside the flavorful bites.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges create a satisfying comfort food experience when served together.
Tomato Soup: Serve with warm tomato soup for a cozy meal option, perfect for dipping!
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers sweetness that complements savory flavors nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Broccoli Cheese Balls can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your cheese balls turn out perfectly every time.

Not chopping broccoli finely: If the broccoli pieces are too large, they won’t mix well with the other ingredients. Aim for small, uniform pieces for better texture and flavor.
Using the wrong type of breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs may not provide the same crispiness as panko. Stick with panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch.
Skipping seasoning: Forgetting to season your mixture can lead to bland bites. Always add salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the flavors.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many balls close together will steam them instead of allowing them to crisp up. Leave space between each ball on the baking sheet.
Not letting them cool properly: If you bite into a hot broccoli cheese ball immediately, you risk burning your mouth. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Balls

Freeze before cooking for best results.
Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Balls

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm; note that this may not retain crispiness.
Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Broccoli Cheese Balls are bite-sized snacks made with chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs. They are crispy outside and cheesy inside, making them tasty treats.

Can I make Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it or freeze it before baking. This makes them perfect for meal prep or parties.

How do I customize my Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Feel free to add different cheeses like mozzarella or incorporate spices such as cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick. You can also add cooked bacon bits or other veggies.

Are Broccoli Cheese Balls healthy?

With fresh broccoli and minimal oil used in cooking, these bites can be a healthier snack option compared to traditional fried snacks.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cheese Balls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to serve any time of day. Whether as an appetizer or a fun snack, they bring joy and comfort to any table. Don’t hesitate to customize them according to your taste—experimenting is half the fun!

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