Introduction
Are you looking for a tasty and healthy snack that everyone will love? These baked broccoli cheese balls are just perfect! They are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with nutritious broccoli. Plus, they are baked, not fried, so they are healthier too.
This recipe is simple to follow and great for kids and adults alike. Whether you want a snack, a side dish, or something fun for a party, these broccoli cheese balls will be a hit! In this recipe, I will show you how to make these delicious bites step-by-step, using easy ingredients you can find in any kitchen. Let’s get started!
Ingredients – Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To make about 20 broccoli cheese balls, you will need:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed and chopped finely)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a little oil (for baking)
Optional:
- A pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of spice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step by Step Process – Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
First, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender. You can do this by placing them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5 minutes. Once done, drain well and chop finely. Make sure to remove excess water so the mixture won’t be too wet.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well using a spoon or your hands until all ingredients are combined. The mixture should be sticky and hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Take a small amount of the mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Then, roll the ball in extra breadcrumbs for a nice coating. This helps make the outside crispy when baked.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Place the coated broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Make sure to leave some space between each ball so they bake evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Cheese Balls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray the cheese balls lightly with cooking spray or brush with a little oil to help them crisp up. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let the broccoli cheese balls cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, ketchup, or a spicy mayo. Enjoy this healthy, cheesy snack!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (2 balls) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Cholesterol | 55 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any extra water before mixing.
Q2: Can I make these cheese balls vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! You can replace the cheese with vegan cheese and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs.
Q3: Can I freeze broccoli cheese balls?
Absolutely! Place the shaped balls on a tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q4: What dipping sauces go well with broccoli cheese balls?
Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, ketchup, or even a spicy sriracha mayo all work well.
Q5: Are broccoli cheese balls healthy?
Yes! They are a great way to eat more vegetables with protein and calcium from the cheese, plus baking makes them lower in fat than fried snacks.
Final Thoughts
Baked broccoli cheese balls are an easy and delicious way to add more veggies to your diet without sacrificing flavor. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a side dish for dinner. Plus, they are kid-friendly and easy to make ahead of time. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can whip these up any day of the week.
Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure these crispy, cheesy bites will become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses or spices to make the recipe your own. Happy cooking!
