Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (divided); 2 large eggs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect fusion of wholesome veggies and gooey, cheesy comfort—bite-sized, golden, and irresistibly snackable. Every batch comes together with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a little zing from parmesan, rolled into crunchy, crispy balls that beg to be dipped and devoured. Whether you’re hosting a dinner, prepping a casual snack, or looking for a fun way to eat more greens, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls check every box for flavor, texture, and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how quickly these come together with just a handful of everyday ingredients. Each component adds something special to the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, from the nutty cheeses to the soft, earthy broccoli, creating a tasty bite that feels much more than the sum of its parts.

Broccoli: Use 2 cups of finely chopped cooked broccoli for that subtle veggie flavor and vivid green hue.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded—this is what gives each bite its melty, tangy cheesiness.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated—brings a salty, umami punch no cheese ball should be without.
Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, divided—half binds the mixture, the rest creates a crispy golden crust on the outside.
Eggs: 2 large—they hold everyone together, ensuring the balls are moist but firm.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced—adds a delicious depth you’ll definitely notice.
Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon—gives a sweet, mellow background note without chopping onions.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon—adds a gentle hint of heat.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon—just enough to balance all that cheese and veg.
Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: Just a spritz or brush for baking—essential for getting that perfectly browned, slightly crunchy exterior.

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s perfectly hot for that golden finish. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then give it a quick spray or brush of olive oil. This not only prevents sticking, but also helps the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls get that craveable crispy bottom.

Step 2: Mix Up the Filling

In a big bowl, combine your cooked, chopped broccoli, sharp cheddar, grated parmesan, half the breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Dive in with a spatula or your hands and mix until you have a thick, sticky mixture that clumps together easily—this means it’s ready for shaping.

Step 3: Shape and Coat the Balls

Now the fun part! Scoop out about 1 1/2 tablespoons of your mixture and roll them into balls with your hands, making sure they’re nicely packed. Roll each in the remaining breadcrumbs to coat—the extra layer creates that crispy, golden shell everyone loves. Set each one on the prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s a little gap between them.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Once all your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are arranged, give the tops a light mist or brush of oil. Slide them into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re deliciously crisp and golden brown on the outside. Let them cool slightly before serving, so the cheese inside is warm but not molten.

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Garnishes

A sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley, extra parmesan, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can really make your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls pop, both visually and in flavor. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of creamy ranch or a dollop of your favorite marinara on the side adds a perfect finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls team up beautifully with light salads, simple roasted veggies, or a bowl of tomato soup. They also make great finger food alongside a platter of fresh veggies, pita chips, or crackers for dipping—think casual gathering, game night, or family movie snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls on a wooden board with little dipping bowls tucked around, or skewer them with cute cocktail picks for a party-ready look. You can even serve them mini-style in muffin liners for a playful, grab-and-go touch that’ll get everyone talking (and snacking).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. They hold their texture really well, making them perfect for next-day snacks or easy lunchbox additions.

Freezing

These freeze like a dream! Arrange the cooled balls on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep happily in the freezer for up to two months—just thaw before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For the best texture, pop Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls back in a hot oven or air fryer until warmed through and re-crisped (just 8 to 10 minutes at 375°F). A quick microwave zap works too, but won’t give you that same irresistibly crunchy crust.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out any extra moisture to prevent sogginess, then chop finely and proceed with the recipe. Frozen broccoli is actually a handy shortcut if you’re making these on a whim.

What dips go best with these balls?

Marinara, ranch, and honey mustard are all crowd-pleasers for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, but you can also try spicy sriracha mayo or a garlicky yogurt dip for something different and fun.

Can I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones and check your cheese labels. The result is just as delicious and perfect for gluten-sensitive guests.

Can I add extra veggies or swap the cheese?

Definitely—try folding in a handful of finely chopped spinach, or switch up the cheese blend with pepper jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a new twist on the classic Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls flavor.

How do I prevent the balls from falling apart?

Make sure your mixture is sticky and cohesive before shaping, and don’t skimp on the eggs or breadcrumbs. Squeezing the broccoli dry also helps keep everything together once they hit the oven.

Final Thoughts

You’re going to love how simple, satisfying, and versatile Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are—there’s a reason they’ve become a go-to in my kitchen. Give them a try and watch your friends and family light up after the very first bite!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 20 balls (about 4 servings) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and nutritious appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or as a tasty treat. Packed with cheesy goodness and the goodness of broccoli, these crispy balls are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

Scale

Broccoli Mixture:

2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (divided)
2 large eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Coating and Baking:

Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush the parchment with oil.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until a thick, sticky mixture forms.
Form Balls: Use your hands or a small scoop to form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/2 cup breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
Bake: Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball. Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Let cool slightly before serving.