These baked broccoli cheese balls are a tasty treat that make veggies fun! Packed with fresh broccoli and melted cheese, they are both crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Honestly, who knew eating broccoli could be so enjoyable? I love serving these with a little dipping sauce. They’re perfect as a snack or side dish and disappear quickly at my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for vibrant flavor and texture. You can replace it with frozen broccoli, just ensure it’s thawed and drained well for the best results.
Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite for its melty goodness, but mozzarella works too! For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cheese that melts well.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are fine, but panko gives an extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead!
Eggs: Eggs help bind the mixture. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or applesauce to keep everything together.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Broccoli for This Recipe?
To get the best flavor and texture from your broccoli, it’s important to blanch it before mixing. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes, until they are tender but still bright green.
- Immediately transfer the broccoli to an ice bath (a bowl of cold water) to stop the cooking process. This keeps the beautiful color and crispness!
- Once cooled, drain and chop the broccoli finely before mixing it into your ingredients.
This technique not only prepares the broccoli perfectly but also enhances its flavor in the final dish.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Balls:
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar and mozzarella mix)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
For Baking:
- Olive oil or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking sheet)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to have these delicious broccoli cheese balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
Next, steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water until they are tender yet still bright green, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Be sure to drain them well afterward and allow them to cool slightly.
3. Chop the Broccoli:
Once the broccoli is cool enough to handle, chop it finely using a knife or pulse it gently in a food processor until it’s nicely broken down but not mushy.
4. Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the optional Italian herbs. Stir until everything is well mixed.
5. Add Eggs:
Lightly beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then add them to the mixture. Mix all the ingredients together until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should stick together when pressed. If it seems too wet, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs until you reach the right consistency.
6. Form the Balls:
Now it’s time to shape the mixture! Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into small balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed balls onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
7. Bake:
Before baking, lightly spray or brush the broccoli cheese balls with olive oil to help them turn golden and crispy. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
8. Cool and Serve:
When they are ready, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve these delightful bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or garlic aioli, and enjoy!
These crispy, cheesy broccoli bites make for a fantastic snack or a side dish that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for These Balls?
Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water. You can lightly steam it to retain a good texture before chopping it finely for the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cheese. Nutritional yeast also works great for adding a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just make sure the substitute melts well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispy texture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge covered for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to bake them a little longer if they’re cold from the fridge, so keep an eye on them!
