Broccoli Cheese Balls

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Balls are one of those snacks that hit all the right notes—crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with the goodness of broccoli. These little bites are not only a fun way to sneak in some veggies but also a crowd-pleaser that everyone, young and old, will enjoy. The combination of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or a simple snack, they’re always a hit.

I’ve made these Broccoli Cheese Balls countless times for family gatherings, and they never disappoint. One of the best things about them is how easy they are to prepare. You can make the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making the actual cooking process super quick when you’re ready to serve. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. I’ve even switched up the cheese a few times—adding a little mozzarella or parmesan can give them an extra layer of flavor, depending on what you have on hand.

Whether you’re trying to get your little ones to eat more veggies or just craving something cheesy and crispy, these Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect snack. Serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for an added bonus! They’re guaranteed to disappear fast, so you might want to make a double batch!

Perfect for:

• Appetizers
• Party snacks
• Family dinners
• Meal prep
• Kids’ meals

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Balls

Here’s why you’ll absolutely love Broccoli Cheese Balls:

• Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of sharp cheddar and melted cheese inside each ball makes every bite irresistibly cheesy and comforting.
• Sneaky Veggies: These cheese balls are an excellent way to sneak in some healthy vegetables, making them a hit with picky eaters and kids.
• Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: The exterior of each ball is crispy and golden, while the interior is tender, cheesy, and bursting with flavor.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these Broccoli Cheese Balls come together in no time.
• Versatile: They can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course when paired with a salad or dipping sauce.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 24 cheese balls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 80-90 calories per ball
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make 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)

Ingredient Highlights

• Broccoli: A great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, broccoli adds a healthy, nutritious element to these cheesy bites.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the mildness of the broccoli.
• Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients together and create that crispy golden exterior.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adding grated Parmesan enhances the cheese flavor and adds a delightful depth of richness.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: These spices elevate the flavor profile of the cheese balls, giving them a savory, aromatic taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Broccoli Cheese Balls is simple and fun! Here’s how to do it:

Prepare the Broccoli:

1. Cook the Broccoli: Start by steaming or boiling the broccoli florets until they’re tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and let them cool.
2. Chop the Broccoli: Once cooled, chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Mix the Ingredients:

3. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the Broccoli and Cheese: Stir in the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan (if using). Mix everything until well combined.

Form the Cheese Balls:

5. Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Cheese Balls:

6. Bake at 375°F (190°C): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cheese balls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the cheese balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls are delicious and versatile—here are some ways to serve them:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these cheese balls as an appetizer at your next party or family gathering. They’re perfect for dipping and sharing!
• With Dipping Sauces: Pair with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a tangy mustard dip to complement the flavors.
• As a Side Dish: These cheesy balls make a great side dish for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
• For Kids’ Meals: Serve them as a fun, kid-friendly dinner or snack alongside some fruit and veggie sticks.
• With a Fresh Salad: Add them to a green salad to turn a simple salad into a complete meal.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls:

• Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli. Frozen broccoli can be used, but make sure it’s well-drained and chopped before using.
• Make Ahead: These cheese balls can be assembled ahead of time. Refrigerate them on the baking sheet for up to 2 hours before baking.
• Customize the Cheese: Try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
• Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add cooked and crumbled turkey bacon to the mixture.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze the unbaked cheese balls for up to 3 months. Just bake them from frozen for an extra 5-10 minutes.
• Get Creative with Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to add variety to the flavor.

Recipe Variations for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Here are 10 fun variations of Broccoli Cheese Balls:

• Cheddar and Bacon: Add crispy turkey bacon bits to the mixture for a smoky, savory twist.
• Spicy Broccoli Cheese Balls: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to spice things up.
• Italian Broccoli Cheese Balls: Mix in some Italian seasoning and grated mozzarella cheese for a more Italian flavor.
• Vegan Broccoli Cheese Balls: Substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese and use a flax egg instead of regular eggs.
• Broccoli and Cauliflower Balls: Add some cauliflower to the mixture for a different texture and flavor.
• Broccoli Cheese Balls with Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, include chopped jalapeños in the mixture.
• Pesto Broccoli Cheese Balls: Add a tablespoon of basil pesto to the mix for an herby, savory flavor.
• Baked Broccoli Cheese Patties: Instead of balls, shape the mixture into small patties and bake them.
• Broccoli and Sweet Potato Balls: Mix in some mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet flavor and extra texture.
• Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheese Balls: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour for a gluten-free version.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These cheese balls freeze well. After forming them, place the balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items that can help with making Broccoli Cheese Balls:

• Large Mixing Bowl: A big bowl is essential for mixing the ingredients together thoroughly.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper will prevent the cheese balls from sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop can help you portion out uniform-sized balls for even baking.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper ensures the cheese balls bake evenly and don’t stick.
• Grater: A fine grater helps to easily shred cheese and add it to the mixture.

FAQ Section for Broccoli Cheese Balls

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just be sure to thaw it fully and drain any excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the cheese balls in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake them.
3. How do I make these cheese balls crispy?
   Make sure to bake them at the right temperature (375°F/190°C) and avoid overstuffing the mixture. Using panko breadcrumbs also gives them a crispier texture.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying them?
   Yes, these Broccoli Cheese Balls are baked for a healthier alternative to frying, and they come out just as crispy and delicious.
5. Can I freeze these cheese balls?
   Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked balls and bake them directly from the freezer when needed.

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Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect combination of cheesy, crispy, and healthy. These bite-sized treats are packed with flavor and nutritious vegetables, making them a fun and satisfying snack that’s sure to please everyone. With their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy interior, they’re perfect for serving as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal.

Easy to make and incredibly versatile, these broccoli cheese balls will quickly become a go-to recipe for all your snacking and entertaining needs. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a cozy family meal, or a quick bite on a busy day, they are always a hit.

Try them today and enjoy a delicious, cheesy treat! I can’t wait to see how your Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations! Feel free to leave a comment or share your thoughts. Happy cooking!