Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: A Delicious and Healthy Snack Recipe

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful and nutritious twist on traditional comfort food that I absolutely adore. These little bites of goodness not only pack a punch of flavor but also bring a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings where we would enjoy cheesy, savory snacks together. Originating from the need to make vegetables more appealing, these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls have become a favorite in many households, especially among those looking to sneak in some greens into their meals.

What I love most about this dish is its perfect balance of taste and texture. The crispy exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy center, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them an ideal snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a quick weeknight treat, these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that celebrates the wonderful combination of broccoli and cheese!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Cooking spray or additional olive oil for greasing

Preparing the Broccoli

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your broccoli cheese balls bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. 2. While the oven is heating, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the chopped broccoli florets. Blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. This step helps to soften the broccoli and enhances its vibrant color. 3. After blanching, drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and help retain the bright green color. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then drain again and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy cheese balls.

Mixing the Ingredients

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched and chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. The combination of cheeses will give your cheese balls a rich flavor and creamy texture. 5. Next, add the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). These seasonings will elevate the flavor profile of your cheese balls, making them irresistible. 6. Crack the two large eggs into the mixture. The eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold everything together. 7. Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything together until well combined. You want to ensure that the broccoli and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a splash of water or a little more cheese to help bind it.

Forming the Cheese Balls

8. Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to form the cheese balls. I like to use a cookie scoop or my hands to grab about 2 tablespoons of the mixture. Roll it into a ball shape, making sure it’s compact. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up. You should have about 12-15 cheese balls, depending on the size. 9. Place the formed cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each ball to allow for even cooking. 10. Lightly spray the tops of the cheese balls with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them. This will help them achieve a crispy exterior while baking.

Baking the Cheese Balls

11. Once your oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake the broccoli cheese balls for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. I like to flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly. 12. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. You want them to be perfectly golden, but not overcooked. The aroma of melted cheese and roasted broccoli will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Serving Suggestions

13. Once the cheese balls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This will help them firm up a bit more. 14. Serve the baked broccoli cheese balls warm, with your favorite dipping sauce. I love pairing them with a tangy marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dressing. They also make a great appetizer for parties or a fun snack for movie night. 15. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.

Tips and Variations

16. Feel free to customize the cheese balls to your liking! You can add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor, or swap out the cheddar for

Conclusion:

In summary, these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to add a delicious and nutritious twist to their snack or appetizer repertoire. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also provide a fantastic way to sneak in some greens, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. The combination of crispy exteriors and cheesy, tender interiors creates a delightful texture that is simply irresistible. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these delightful bites with a zesty dipping sauce, such as a tangy ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo, to elevate the flavor even further. You can also experiment with variations by adding different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy mozzarella, or even incorporating other vegetables like spinach or carrots for an extra nutritional boost. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made your own Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creations! Let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Print