Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; cooking spray

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If you’re hunting for something fun, flavorful, and loaded with veggie goodness, you cannot miss these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls! Tender bits of broccoli meet gooey melted cheese in one irresistibly crispy bite, baked instead of fried for a lighter, melt-in-your-mouth result. This is the kind of snack or appetizer that has everyone coming back for “just one more,” whether you’re serving picky kids, veggie lovers, or anyone who thinks finger food should always taste this good. Let’s dive into the world of Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls together—your new go-to party pleaser!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll only need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients to create a snack that’s seriously crowd-pleasing. Each element is essential: from creamy cheese to herby seasoning, everything adds its own layer of flavor and texture to make these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls unforgettable.

Fresh broccoli florets (2 cups, finely chopped): The heart and soul of each ball, adding a tender texture and that beautiful green color.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the broccoli for that craveable cheesy gooeyness.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): The secret to holding these together and creating a perfectly crisp golden edge.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Infuses a salty, nutty punch that works magic with the other flavors.
Large eggs (2): They bind the mixture for a sturdy, not crumbly, cheesy snack.
Minced garlic (2 cloves): Adds fresh flavor and aromatic punch in every bite.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just the right amount for a subtle warmth.
Dried Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a fragrant blend of herbs for Italian-inspired flair.
Cooking spray: For a lighter finish and evenly golden crust without the heaviness of deep-frying.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to guarantee easy cleanup and ensure your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls won’t stick.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Finely chop your broccoli florets, then give them a quick steam for about 4 to 5 minutes—just until they’re bright green and tender. Drain very well, and most importantly, pat the broccoli dry. You want as little moisture as possible so the balls hold together beautifully and bake up crisp.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Combine your steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Dive in with a spatula (or even your hands!) and mix until every bite is full of balanced flavor and texture. This is when the magic happens—the mixture should be cohesive but not overly wet.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

With clean hands, scoop a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and gently roll it into a 1-inch ball. Arrange each one on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even baking. You should end up with about 24 balls—perfect for sharing!

Step 5: Spray and Bake

Lightly mist each ball with cooking spray to help them develop that golden, crispy finish. Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for 18–20 minutes. You’re looking for a gorgeous color and a firm shape—resist the urge to overbake, as you want the insides tender and cheesy.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls rest for a few minutes after they come out of the oven. This allows them to set, making them easier to handle (and to dip!). Serve warm, and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Garnishes

Make them pop with a final flourish of freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat, while a squeeze of lemon brings brightness to every bite. Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls also love a drizzle of your favorite herby yogurt sauce or even a side of tangy salsa.

Side Dishes

While they’re undeniably snackable, these bites fit easily into a meal. Pair them with a zesty marinara or cool ranch for dipping. A crisp garden salad or a steaming bowl of tomato soup turns Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls into a satisfying lunch or light dinner, and they’re stellar next to roasted potatoes or grilled chicken for a bigger spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve them on a platter skewered with mini forks for easy grabbing, or tuck them inside slider buns with fresh greens for veggie-packed sandwiches. Try packing a few in a lunchbox with a fun dipper, or stack them on a board with pickles and cheese for a show-stopping appetizer display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you do manage to have any Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls left, cool them completely and pop them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—a quick, ready-to-go snack for after school or late-night cravings!

Freezing

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months, ready to be popped into the oven whenever you need a cheesy, veggie-studded treat.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat these balls in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy—about 8 to 10 minutes. The microwave works for emergencies, but the oven is your friend if you want those crispy edges to come back to life. No one will guess they’ve been made ahead!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw it completely, squeeze out as much liquid as possible, and chop it finely before adding it to your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls mixture. This keeps your balls from turning soggy.

What’s the best cheese combination for these balls?

Cheddar and Parmesan are classic, but you can try mixing in mozzarella for extra stretch, or a bit of pepper jack for a little kick. The key is to balance melty cheeses with ones that add flavor and structure.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free version. Everything else stays exactly the same, making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls a fantastic option for gluten-free guests.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Mix everything up, shape the balls, and refrigerate them (covered) for up to a day before baking. This makes party prep a total breeze—or dinner as simple as turning on the oven.

What dipping sauces go best with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Marinara sauce is a classic, while ranch or honey mustard are absolute crowd-pleasers. For something fresh, try Greek yogurt with lemon and dill. These cheesy bites are endlessly dip-friendly, so change it up every time you serve them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to make these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls part of your kitchen repertoire! They’re easy, satisfying, and just plain fun to eat—perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you crave a playful twist on veggies. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch soon; I promise, you’re about to discover a new favorite!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 balls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free option with gluten-free breadcrumbs

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Description

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and nutritious appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties or gatherings. Packed with cheesy goodness and the goodness of broccoli, these crispy bites are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

Scale

Broccoli Cheese Balls:

2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
cooking spray

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare broccoli: Steam the chopped broccoli until tender, about 4–5 minutes, then drain well and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well incorporated.
Shape and bake: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the balls with cooking spray. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown and firm.
Cool and serve: Let the broccoli cheese balls cool slightly before serving.