Broccoli Cheese Balls

Name: Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: July 6, 2025

by Nora

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Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful snack that combines the crunchiness of a perfect breading with the gooey, cheesy goodness inside. This versatile dish is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy appetizer, or simply wanting a fun snack to enjoy at home. These bites are not only easy to prepare but also an excellent way to incorporate veggies into your meals. Get ready for a flavor-packed experience that will please everyone!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have these delicious bites ready in no time.
Healthy and nutritious: Packed with broccoli and cheese, these snacks offer a balance of flavors while sneaking in some veggies.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a tasty snack during movie night.
Kid-approved: The cheesy goodness makes them irresistible for kids and adults alike!
Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick snacks later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Broccoli Cheese Balls, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Spoon or cookie scoop
Oven

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients effortlessly without making a mess.
Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your Broccoli Cheese Balls.
Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes clean-up much easier.
Spoon or cookie scoop: A scoop helps portion out the cheese balls evenly for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

For the Broccoli Cheese Balls

2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped into small pieces
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs, preferably panko for extra crispiness
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Broccoli Cheese Balls will bake evenly and get that nice golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. If using, add grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for added flavor.
3. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Using your hands or a spoon:
1. Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
2. Check occasionally to ensure they don’t over-bake.

Enjoy these scrumptious Broccoli Cheese Balls warm as they come out of the oven!

How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, they are sure to delight everyone at the table. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch dressing adds coolness and complements the cheesy flavor.
Marinara Sauce: For a tangy twist, serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Garlic Aioli: This rich and garlicky dip elevates the snack and enhances its taste.
Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Add a kick with spicy mayo that balances the cheesy bites perfectly.

Serve with Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing pairs well with the warm cheese balls.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheese.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can provide a delightful contrast in texture.

Use as Toppings

On Top of Pasta: Add Broccoli Cheese Balls as a topping for pasta dishes for added flavor and fun.
In Tacos: Crumble them into soft or hard-shell tacos for an unexpected vegetarian option.

How to Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

To make your Broccoli Cheese Balls even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

Chop Broccoli Finely: Ensure the broccoli is chopped into small pieces to help bind the mixture better.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cheese and vegetables for maximum flavor and nutrition.
Preheat Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve that crispy exterior.
Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak seasonings according to your preference for added flavor.
Make Ahead of Time: Prepare your mixture in advance and refrigerate it before baking for easier meal prep.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Cheese Balls

When serving Broccoli Cheese Balls, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance the meal experience. Consider these delicious options.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the cheesy flavor perfectly while adding crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrients to your plate.
Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast that balances the savory cheese balls beautifully.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with veggies makes for a healthy side dish option.
Tomato Soup: This classic pairing creates a comforting experience, perfect for chilly evenings.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden-brown wedges offer a hearty addition that’s always popular among kids and adults alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Broccoli Cheese Balls, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

Using raw broccoli: Ensure you use cooked broccoli for the best texture and flavor. Steaming or boiling it beforehand makes it easier to combine with other ingredients.
Skipping the breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs are essential for that crispy exterior. Don’t skip them; consider using panko for extra crunch.
Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the balls dense. Mix just until combined for a lighter, fluffier texture.
Not seasoning properly: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper; taste the mixture before forming the balls.
Ignoring cooking time: Cooking times can vary by oven. Watch them closely to ensure they’re golden brown but not burnt.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
They will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Broccoli Cheese Balls

Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first.
Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Broccoli Cheese Balls

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1 minute, but expect a softer texture.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Broccoli Cheese Balls.

How do I customize my Broccoli Cheese Balls?

You can add different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors. Adding spices or herbs like chili flakes or Italian seasoning can also enhance taste.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained before using it in your recipe.

Are Broccoli Cheese Balls healthy?

These bites provide a good source of vegetables while being lower in calories compared to many fried snacks. They make a great addition to a balanced diet.

How can I serve Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or alongside your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or marinara sauce.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful way to enjoy veggies while satisfying your cravings. Their versatility allows you to serve them at parties or as a cozy snack at home. Feel free to customize with different cheeses or herbs, making them truly your own! Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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