Delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked broccoli cheese balls are a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and healthy broccoli, wrapped in a crispy, golden exterior. These light, savory bites are a fun way to enjoy vegetables, making them ideal for snacks, appetizers, or side dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 18-20 broccoli cheese balls
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and finely chop the broccoli.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli cheese balls are golden and crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.
Swap the cheddar for mozzarella or a mix of cheeses like Parmesan for a unique flavor.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Mix in cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage for added richness.
Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a fresh twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 broccoli cheese ball
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
