Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

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, making them suitable for family gatherings, game days, or a simple snack at home. Their combination of cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli makes them a standout choice that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, these baked broccoli cheese balls are perfect for busy schedules.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with broccoli, they offer a healthy twist on traditional snacks without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a tasty snack throughout the day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The cheesy goodness appeals to both kids and adults, making them a favorite at any gathering.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to personalize the flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (or cooking spray)
• Steamer basket (for steaming broccoli)
• Spoon or scoop (for shaping balls)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy combining of all ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking and helps achieve a crispy texture.
• Steamer basket: Steaming broccoli ensures it retains its nutrients while becoming tender enough for mixing.

Ingredients

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).

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Allow them to cool before finely chopping.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Roll small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes while watching closely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the baked broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly before serving warm with marinara or ranch dip. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked broccoli cheese balls are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty appetizer, these cheesy bites will impress your guests.

With Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, marinara adds a tangy flavor that complements the cheese.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch provides a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy bites.
• Garlic Aioli: This rich dip enhances the garlic flavor in the broccoli cheese balls.

As Part of a Platter

• Veggie Platter: Serve alongside fresh vegetables for a colorful and healthy spread.
• Cheese Board: Include these balls on a cheese board with assorted cheeses and crackers.

In Mini Sliders

• Broccoli Cheese Ball Sliders: Place them in small buns with lettuce and sauce for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Creating the perfect baked broccoli cheese balls requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose Fresh Broccoli: Fresh florets have better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Finely Chop Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are chopped finely for even cooking and better binding.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just enough to combine everything; overmixing can make them tough.
• Spray Generously: Use cooking spray on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked broccoli cheese balls pair well with many side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds crunch and complements the cheesy flavors.
2. Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy balls.
3. Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw offers a creamy texture that balances the richness of the cheese.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers add nutrition and vibrancy to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings protein and fiber, making it more filling.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add additional flavors and nutrients.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries introduce sweetness that pairs nicely with savory bites.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad cleanses the palate after rich bites of cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making baked broccoli cheese balls can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes can make your dish even better.

• Skipping the chopping: Not finely chopping the broccoli can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure the florets are chopped small for even texture and flavor.
• Inconsistent ball sizes: Rolling unevenly sized balls may cause some to cook faster than others. Aim for uniform 1-inch balls to ensure even baking.
• Under-seasoning: Forgetting to season adequately can make the cheese balls bland. Always taste your mixture before shaping and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in soggy cheese balls. Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking.
• Skipping the cooling time: Serving too soon can result in a messy bite. Allow the baked broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover baked broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Freeze unbaked or cooked cheese balls for up to 2 months.
• Place them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag after they are frozen solid.

Reheating Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds at a time until warm. Expect less crispiness.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick pan over medium heat until warmed, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding baked broccoli cheese balls.

Can I use frozen broccoli for baked broccoli cheese balls?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just steam it first and ensure it’s well-drained before chopping.

What cheese works best in baked broccoli cheese balls?

Cheddar is a great choice, but you can mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.

How do I make baked broccoli cheese balls gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers or gluten-free bread crumbs.

Can I add other vegetables to my baked broccoli cheese balls?

Absolutely! Carrots, spinach, or bell peppers can be great additions for more flavor and nutrition.

How do I serve baked broccoli cheese balls?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or ranch dip and make perfect appetizers or snacks!

Final Thoughts

Baked broccoli cheese balls are an irresistible snack that combines crispy texture with cheesy goodness. They’re versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, side dish, or snack anytime. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite spices or vegetables for a personal touch!

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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious, crispy snack that perfectly blends the rich flavors of cheese with the nutritional benefits of broccoli. This easy-to-make appetizer is ideal for family gatherings, game days, or a quick snack at home. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up these cheesy bites that are sure to please both kids and adults alike. With the flexibility to customize with your favorite herbs and spices, they can cater to every palate while still being a wholesome option. Serve them warm with your choice of dipping sauce for an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp (about 3-5 minutes), then chop finely.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in size) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with marinara or ranch dip.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 130mg