These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your craving for a cheesy, crispy treat. With a combination of cheddar, parmesan, and fresh broccoli, these baked balls are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients

2 cups finely chopped broccoli
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Broccoli Cheese Balls: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme to the mixture for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

10 FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Be sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before chopping.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day before shaping and baking the balls.
Can I fry these instead of baking them? While baking is recommended for a healthier option, you can fry them in oil for a crispier texture. Just heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a different flavor.
How do I prevent the broccoli cheese balls from falling apart? Make sure the mixture is well combined and that you don’t skip the egg, as it helps bind everything together. If the mixture feels too loose, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Can I freeze broccoli cheese balls? Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve these with? These broccoli cheese balls pair well with a dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or garlic butter.
How can I make these dairy-free? You can use dairy-free cheese and mayonnaise as alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.
Can I make these without egg? Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or a store-bought egg replacer.
Can I make them smaller or larger? You can adjust the size of the balls according to your preference. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if you make them larger or smaller.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a fun and tasty way to enjoy broccoli with the indulgent flavors of cheese and crispy breading. Perfect for any occasion, whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, these bite-sized treats are sure to be loved by everyone. Easy to make, customizable, and full of flavor, they are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing taste!