Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy appetizer or snack, combining tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, all coated with breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized balls are crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful inside, making them perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a wholesome snack paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they are tender. Drain any excess water thoroughly and finely chop the broccoli to ensure even mixing and texture in the cheese balls.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and mix well until the mixture holds together and is cohesive enough to shape into balls.
- Form the balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form uniform balls. Place these balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow even cooking.
- Coat the balls: Lightly spray or brush the broccoli cheese balls with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them to help achieve a golden and crispy exterior during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the broccoli cheese balls for 18-20 minutes, or until the outside is golden brown and crispy, indicating they are cooked through and perfectly crispy.
- Serve: Remove the broccoli cheese balls from the oven and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Make sure to drain and chop the broccoli finely to avoid soggy balls.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
- You can add herbs like parsley or chives to enhance the flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Serve with ranch dressing, marinara, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
