Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups Broccoli Florets; 1 cup Breadcrumbs; 1½ cups Cheddar Cheese, grated; ⅓ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated; 2 Eggs; 2 tbsp All-purpose Flour; ½ tsp Onion Powder; ½ tsp Garlic Powder; ½ tsp Salt; ¼ tsp Pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 39 reviews

If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and loaded with wholesome goodness, then this Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe is going to become your new best friend. These delightful bites bring together tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan, all enveloped in a crispy breadcrumb crust that bakes to perfection. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a fun side dish, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and nutritious goodness while keeping things light by baking instead of frying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There are two green broccoli heads at the top left. Below them are two brown eggs side by side. To the right of the broccoli and eggs, there are five small white bowls: the top one filled with white flour, the second with shredded yellow cheese, the third holding four different spices spaced apart (red chili flakes, salt, black pepper, and ground ginger), the fourth bowl at the bottom left contains grated white cheese, and the fifth bowl at the bottom right holds what looks like a mix of orange and yellow crumbs or seasoning. The scene is bright and clear, giving a fresh and organized feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the first step to making these irresistible Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. Each item plays a crucial role, from providing a vibrant green color and tender texture to adding layers of cheesy flavor and a satisfyingly crunchy crust.

Broccoli Florets (2 cups): The star veggie, finely chopped and steamed to keep their vibrant flavor and tender bite.
Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Essential for binding the mixture and creating a golden crispy exterior.
Cheddar Cheese, grated (1½ cups): Adds creamy, sharp cheesiness that melts beautifully inside the balls.
Parmesan Cheese, grated (⅓ cup): Gives a salty, nutty depth that elevates the overall flavor.
Eggs (2): Help to bind all ingredients firmly together for perfect shapes that won’t fall apart.
All-purpose Flour (2 tbsp): Adds structure, ensuring a cohesive mixture.
Onion Powder (½ tsp): A subtle background note that adds gentle sweetness.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp): For a warm and inviting kick of flavor.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds just enough spice to balance the richness.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (or 200 degrees Celsius) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking, ensuring every ball comes out perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Steam and Chop the Broccoli

Finely chop the broccoli florets, then steam them for about three minutes. This softens the broccoli just enough to blend seamlessly with the cheeses but still keeps a delightful texture. Once steamed, set the broccoli aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Combine the steamed broccoli with breadcrumbs, grated cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, eggs, all-purpose flour, and all the spices—onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—in a large bowl. Use your hands to mix everything together until fully combined. This tactile process helps you gauge the right consistency for forming balls.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

Using about two teaspoons of the mixture for each ball, roll the mixture between your palms to create small, uniform spheres. Place these carefully on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each to allow for even baking.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the broccoli cheese balls turn beautifully golden and crispy on the outside. The aroma at this point will undoubtedly have you eager to dig in!

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

The image shows small, round vegetable balls placed neatly in rows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Each ball has a rough texture with visible green pieces of broccoli and bits of orange, possibly carrot, mixed with small white chunks and herbs. The vegetable balls are golden-yellow with green and orange flecks spread evenly throughout, creating a colorful, rustic look. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serve these cheesy balls with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light drizzle of garlic aioli or a side of marinara sauce will add a zesty contrast that’s just irresistible.

Side Dishes

These broccoli cheese balls pair wonderfully with crisp garden salads, roasted vegetables, or even a light soup to round out a meal without overwhelming their delightful flavor and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, arrange the broccoli cheese balls on a wooden serving platter with toothpicks stuck in each one for easy grab-and-go snacking. Another fun idea is to serve them in mini muffin tins with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dip on the side for individual portions that impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cooled broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps keep their texture and flavor fresh but expect them to soften slightly in the fridge.

Freezing

Perfect for meal prep, simply freeze baked broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months, making them easy to reheat whenever a cheesy snack craving hits.

Reheating

To bring the broccoli cheese balls back to their crispy glory, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove any excess water, so your mixture doesn’t become too soggy. Then proceed with chopping and steaming as usual.

What if I want to make these gluten-free?

Simply swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour or chickpea flour can work well, and gluten-free breadcrumbs are widely available.

Can I add other veggies to the mix?

Absolutely! Finely diced carrots or bell peppers can add a colorful twist and extra nutrients. Just be careful not to add too much moisture to keep the balls firm.

How do I know the broccoli cheese balls are cooked through?

They should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. The cheese inside will be melted and gooey, and the broccoli tender but not mushy.

Can I make these ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, you can shape the balls and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just cover them well so they don’t dry out, then bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about these golden Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe treats that just melt your stress away bite by bite. Once you try this recipe, its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients will quickly lead it onto your regular rotation. So grab your ingredients, get mixing, and enjoy the joy of sharing these warm, cheesy delights with the people you love.

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need