Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating); 1 large egg; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional); 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 2 tbsp finely chopped green onions or parsley; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating); 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing); Ranch dressing (for dipping, optional); Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional); Spicy aioli (for dipping, optional)

Description

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy snack that combines the goodness of broccoli with the rich flavors of cheese. These crispy, cheesy bites are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a great appetizer, snack, or side dish. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)

1 large egg

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

2 tbsp finely chopped green onions or parsley

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Ranch dressing (for dipping, optional)

Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)

Spicy aioli (for dipping, optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease it.
Steam broccoli florets until tender and finely chop.
Mix chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and seasonings in a bowl until well combined.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into a ball, then coat in breadcrumbs. Place on the baking sheet.
Brush each ball with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Chop the broccoli finely to help the mixture bind better.
If the mixture is too dry, add a little water or more egg to help it stick.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Avoid overcooking the broccoli while steaming to prevent a mushy texture.

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

Nutrition

Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g

Keywords: broccoli cheese balls, baked appetizer, healthy snack, vegetarian bites