These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a tasty way to enjoy your veggies! Full of cheesy goodness and loaded with broccoli, they’re crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Honestly, they can easily become your new snack obsession. Just pop them in the oven, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “yum!” 😄
I love serving these with some dip for extra flavor. They’re so easy to make, and they make a cute addition to any meal or party! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best for this recipe. You can use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love using sharp cheddar for its robust flavor, you can mix it with mozzarella for a gooey texture. If you need a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese shreds!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and binds the mixture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but you can also use panko for extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs make a perfect substitution if you’re avoiding gluten.
Onion and Garlic: If you’re not a fan of onion or garlic, feel free to skip them or use garlic powder instead for a subtler flavor.
How Do I Get My Cheese Balls to Hold Together?
The key to ensuring your broccoli cheese balls hold together is in the mixing and consistency of the ingredients. After boiling your broccoli, make sure to chop it finely and mix everything thoroughly.
- Ensure the mixture is sticky. If it’s too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs. If too dry, a splash of water or another egg can help.
- Scooping and rolling them tight helps maintain their shape during baking. Aim for golf ball-sized balls.
- Don’t skip the part where you roll the formed balls in extra breadcrumbs before baking. This gives them a nice crunchy coating.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls every time!
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra meltiness)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious recipe will require about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for baking, totaling around 30-35 minutes. It’s a simple and quick way to whip up a tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
Next, take your fresh broccoli florets and steam or microwave them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender. After cooking, drain any excess water and let the broccoli cool down a bit.
3. Chop the Broccoli:
Once cooled, finely chop the steamed broccoli. You can also pulse them in a food processor, just until small pieces form without turning it into a purée.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion (if you’re using it), breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and any dried herbs you prefer. Mix all the ingredients well until they’re fully combined. The mixture should feel sticky and hold together nicely.
5. Form the Balls:
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Next, roll each ball in some extra breadcrumbs to give them a nice coating. Place the prepared balls on the lined baking sheet.
6. Bake:
Lightly spray the balls with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil. This helps them become nice and crispy as they bake. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and deliciously crunchy.
7. Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove the balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve these cheesy broccoli delights warm, and if you like, pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, broccoli-packed bites hot from the oven! They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping. This will help prevent the mixture from becoming too soggy.
What Can I Use in Place of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for cream cheese. You can also try using a non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain their crispiness.
Can I Bake These in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the broccoli balls for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This will give them a lovely crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and cheesy!
