Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls – A Crispy, Cheesy Bite-Sized Snack You’ll Crave All Day!
These golden balls are baked, not fried, packed with broccoli and gooey cheese – perfect for guilt-free snacking or party appetizers. I remember my aunt bringing these to every family gathering, and they’d disappear before the main dish hit the table. That crispy outside with the melty cheese and herby broccoli center – irresistible! You can prep them ahead, bake them in batches, and watch them vanish in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix chopped broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and seasoning in a bowl.
- Form into small balls using your hands (about 1–1.5 inches).
- Roll each ball lightly in extra breadcrumbs for extra crisp.
- Place on baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Let cool slightly and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts (Per 2 Balls)
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 190 mg |
Printable Recipe Summary
| Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls | |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Broccoli, cheddar, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic |
| Instructions | Mix, form balls, roll in crumbs, bake until golden and crisp |
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Thaw it first, squeeze out excess moisture, then chop.
Q: What dipping sauce goes best?
Ranch, marinara, or a spicy sriracha mayo work perfectly.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze after baking and reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Q: Can I make them vegan?
Use vegan cheese and a flax egg—still tasty and crisp!
