Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

A crispy, cheesy snack that everyone will love is the focus of this recipe. Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer at a party or a healthy side dish during dinner. With their delightful crunch and gooey cheese, these bites are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious snacks in no time.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of broccoli and cheese creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack. They pair perfectly with dips like marinara or ranch.
• Healthier Choice: Baked instead of fried, these cheese balls offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A great option for vegetarians looking for a satisfying snack or appetizer.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Steamer or pot for steaming broccoli

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet: Essential for evenly cooking your cheese balls and ensuring they achieve that golden brown color.
• Steamer: Steaming broccoli retains its nutrients while making it tender, ensuring your cheese balls are both tasty and healthy.

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.

For the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• 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’s heating up, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool before chopping them finely.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

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

Step 3: Form the Balls

Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. If you desire extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving warm with your choice of marinara or ranch dip. Enjoy these delightful bites!

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls make a delightful appetizer or snack. Their crispy exterior and cheesy filling pair well with various dips and sides. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic Italian sauce that adds a tangy flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, this dip complements the cheese perfectly.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who love heat, buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick.

As an Appetizer Platter

• Veggie Platter: Serve alongside fresh vegetables like carrots and celery for crunch.
• Cheese Board: Pair with assorted cheeses for a rich, savory experience.
• Olives and Pickles: Add briny flavors to balance the richness of the cheese balls.

In a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Toss them into a salad for added texture and flavor.
• Caesar Salad: These bites can replace croutons—crunchy, cheesy goodness!

How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor for your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets offer better texture and taste than frozen ones.
• Chop Finely: Ensure the broccoli is finely chopped for even cooking and easier handling.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while baking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak garlic or onion powder according to your taste preferences.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing in other types of cheese like mozzarella for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery option that complements the cheesy flavor.
2. Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy coleslaw adds freshness to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad provides a healthy contrast.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries balance the savory notes of the cheese balls.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful and flavorful stuffed peppers make an eye-catching side.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies enhance the dish’s overall taste profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience while making baked broccoli cheese balls. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the chopping: Not finely chopping the broccoli can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to chop it into small pieces for a consistent texture.
• Ignoring binding agents: Failing to include enough binding agents like eggs or breadcrumbs may cause your balls to fall apart. Ensure you measure these ingredients accurately.
• Inadequate seasoning: Overlooking seasoning can make your cheese balls bland. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and spices for enhanced flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many cheese balls on one baking sheet can prevent them from browning evenly. Give each ball space to cook properly.
• Skipping the preheating step: Not preheating your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat before placing your dish inside for optimal results.
• Not watching while broiling: If you choose to broil for extra crispiness, stay nearby. It only takes a minute or two, and they can burn quickly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen 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 high for about 1-2 minutes, but note that they may not be as crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about baked broccoli cheese balls, we’ve got answers!

Can I use frozen broccoli for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before chopping.

What cheese works best in Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Cheddar is excellent, but you can mix it with mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.

How do I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls vegan?

You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan cheese alternatives.

Can I add other vegetables to my Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Absolutely! Carrots, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions that enhance flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Baked broccoli cheese balls are a delightful snack that appeals to all ages. They are versatile enough to serve as appetizers or side dishes. Feel free to customize them by adding spices or other veggies based on your preferences. Enjoy creating this cheesy goodness!

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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

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• Author: Laura Milligan
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 servings 1x

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Description

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful, cheesy snack that everyone will adore. Perfect for parties, as a healthy side dish, or just a quick bite, these crispy veggie balls combine the nutritious goodness of broccoli with gooey cheddar and Parmesan cheese. They are baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option without compromising on flavor. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or ranch for an irresistible treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Cooking spray (for greasing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli until tender-crisp (about 3-5 minutes), then cool and chop finely.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional minute while watching closely.
5. Serve warm with your choice of dips.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Use fresh broccoli for the best texture. Chill the mixture for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape. Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables or using different cheeses.