Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful and healthy snack that everyone will adore. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, these cheesy bites pack a nutritious punch while being incredibly simple to prepare. With their crispy exterior and gooey cheese interior, they stand out as a flavorful option that can easily fit into various occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These broccoli cheese balls come together quickly with minimal prep time.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates an irresistible taste.
- Versatile Snack: Enjoy them on their own or dip them in marinara or ranch—perfect for any palate!
- Healthy Ingredients: They’re loaded with broccoli, making them a nutritious choice for you and your family.
- Great for Meal Prep: Bake a batch ahead of time and reheat them for an easy snack throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing these baked broccoli cheese balls a breeze. Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Steamer basket or pot for steaming broccoli
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all ingredients easily.
- Baking sheet: This allows even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Steamer basket or pot: Steaming broccoli retains its nutrients and enhances flavor without losing texture.
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.
Ingredients:
– 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 heats, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, which will take about 3–5 minutes. Allow them to cool before finely chopping.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and all-purpose flour. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Roll small portions of the mixture into approximately 1-inch balls. Place these on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Step 4: Bake Them
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes until they turn golden brown. For an extra crispy finish, consider broiling them for an additional 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Allow the baked broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with marinara or ranch dip for an unforgettable snack experience. Enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked broccoli cheese balls are a delightful snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a gathering or as a side dish for dinner, these cheesy bites will impress everyone.
With Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: A classic choice that complements the cheesy flavor and adds a zesty kick.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch offers a cool contrast, perfect for dipping and enhancing the taste.
- Spicy Aioli: For those who love heat, a spicy garlic aioli can elevate your broccoli cheese balls to new heights.
As a Party Snack
- Mini Skewers: Serve on skewers for easy handling at parties. Add cherry tomatoes or olives for extra flair.
- Buffet Style: Set up a platter of baked broccoli cheese balls alongside other appetizers for a fun buffet spread.
Accompanied by Salads
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the richness of Caesar dressing complement these bites beautifully.
- Greek Salad: Fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives offer a refreshing contrast to the cheesy goodness.
As Part of a Main Course
- With Quinoa: Pair with fluffy quinoa for a healthy meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
- On Top of Pasta: Toss some cooked pasta with olive oil and herbs and top with baked broccoli cheese balls for an easy dinner option.
How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To achieve the best results with your baked broccoli cheese balls, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets provide better texture and flavor than frozen ones.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the balls light and airy.
- Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while baking.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to add more spices like red pepper flakes or Italian herbs for added zest.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Serving baked broccoli cheese balls is more delightful when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options you can consider.
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that’s perfect for soaking up any dips or sauces served alongside.
- Fresh Veggie Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots and bell peppers provide crunch and freshness to balance the dish.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy flavor that pairs well with cheesy snacks.
- Roasted Potatoes: Herbed roasted potatoes make a hearty side that complements the lightness of broccoli bites.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings sweetness and color to your table, contrasting nicely with savory flavors.
- Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa, stuffed peppers can serve as a filling side dish alongside your cheesy snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Steaming broccoli too long can make it mushy. Steam until tender-crisp for best texture.
- Not Chopping Finely Enough: Large pieces can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to finely chop the broccoli florets before mixing.
- Skipping the Binding Agents: Omitting eggs or breadcrumbs may cause the balls to fall apart. Ensure you use both for proper cohesion.
- Ignoring Seasoning: A lack of seasoning can make your bites bland. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the flavor.
- Crowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many balls on one sheet can lead to steaming instead of baking. Space them out for even crispiness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they last up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm but note they may lose crispiness.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use frozen broccoli for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just thaw and drain excess moisture before chopping.
What cheeses can I substitute in Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
You can use mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese that melts well. Mixing different cheeses adds great flavor!
How do I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free?
Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers or almond flour.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it a day in advance. Just roll and bake when ready.
Final Thoughts
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are an irresistible snack perfect for any occasion. Their crispy exterior and cheesy interior make them a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or using different cheeses! Try this recipe today for a delightful treat everyone will love.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings (36 balls) 1x
Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a scrumptious and healthy snack that everyone will love! These cheesy bites combine the goodness of broccoli with rich cheddar and Parmesan cheese, making them an irresistible treat for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. The crunchy outside gives way to a gooey, cheesy center, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they’re also a great way to sneak some veggies into your diet. Enjoy them on their own or dip them in your favorite sauce for an added kick!
Ingredients
- 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 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Garlic powder for seasoning
- Onion powder for seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli until tender-crisp (about 3–5 minutes) and let it cool before chopping.
- 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.
- Roll the mixture into approximately 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Serve warm with marinara or ranch dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 balls (90g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
