Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. These tasty bites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a great appetizer or snack. With the goodness of broccoli and the irresistible allure of cheese, this dish offers a healthy twist to your snacking habits. Plus, they’re baked, making them a guilt-free indulgence perfect for family gatherings or as a simple side dish for dinner.
Why We Love This Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
You might wonder why these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls have gained such popularity. For starters, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time. The recipe involves simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. Plus, they are a fantastic way to sneak in some vegetables, especially for those in your family who may be picky eaters. These delicious bites are cheesy, crunchy, and packed with nutrients, making them a hit at any gathering. Whether served as a healthier party snack or an easy side dish, they will impress your guests and family alike.
Ingredients about Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To create the perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, gather these ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Directions
Starting your culinary journey with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is simple, and you will soon discover how rewarding homemade snacks can be. Here’s how to prepare this delicious treat:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). This is the first step, as you’ll want to ensure a perfectly cooked ball that’s crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but also helps achieve that desirable golden crust.
- Prepare the broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes. This brief cooking will soften them, making it easier to chop. After steaming, drain them well and finely chop the florets to incorporate well into the mixture.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix until the mixture holds together well.
- Form the balls: Take tablespoon-sized portions from the mixture and roll them into small balls. Ensuring they are compact will help keep their shape during baking.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the formed balls on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- Add finishing touches: Spray or lightly brush the tops of the broccoli cheese balls with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Bake: Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and take them out once they are golden and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm: Allow them to cool slightly and then enjoy these delicious bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Serving your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is simple yet can be made more exciting with a few creative ideas. Consider these ways to present them:
- Dipping sauces: Pair your cheese balls with an array of dipping sauces. A homemade garlic aioli or ranch dressing complements the flavors nicely. You could also opt for a zesty marinara or even a sweet chili sauce for a kick.
- Presentation: Use a colorful platter to display your broccoli cheese balls. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley on top can add a pop of color.
- Side dish options: Serve these balls alongside a fresh salad or as part of a vegetable platter at your gatherings. They can easily serve as a side to a more substantial meal, adding both flavor and nutrition.
Expert Tips: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To ensure your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:
- Check the consistency: The mixture should be moist but hold its shape. If it feels too dry, add a touch more cheese or a splash of water to help bind the mixture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh broccoli and quality cheese. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance flavor and texture.
- Batch preparation: If you want to enjoy these delicious bites later, consider making double the batch and freezing them before baking. You can simply bake them straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
- Experiment with cheese: While cheddar and Parmesan work beautifully, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Storing your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is straightforward. Follow these steps to keep them fresh:
- Room temperature: If you plan to eat them within a few hours, keep them at room temperature in a covered container.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, transfer the baked balls to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For extended storage, freeze the uncooked broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. You can bake them directly from the freezer.
Varieties of Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
While the classic version of Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is delightful, there are numerous ways to incorporate various flavors and ingredients to suit your taste preferences:
- Add spices: Play around with additional spices like cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for a more herby flavor.
- Vegetable variations: Incorporate other finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or carrots. This can add color and additional nutrients to your dish.
- Gluten-free option: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have dietary restrictions.
- Cheese blends: Consider mixing different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor twist.
FAQ
What are Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are small, savory bites made primarily from finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, and shredded cheese, baked to perfection until crispy.
How do you make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
To make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, finely chop steamed broccoli and mix it with breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, an egg, and seasonings. Roll into balls and bake until golden.
Can you freeze Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen.
What can I serve with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
These delicious bites pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.
How long do Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls last?
When stored in the refrigerator, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls can last up to 3 days. For long-term storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped Fresh broccoli is recommended.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Use regular or gluten-free as necessary.
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese Substitute other cheeses if desired.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can be replaced with other hard cheeses.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder for the mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Adjust based on taste preference.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil For preparing the baking sheet.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes, then drain and finely chop them.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Take tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls.
- Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet with space in between each.
- Spray the tops of the balls with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Let them cool slightly before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!