Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful blend of crispy texture and cheesy goodness, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy snack, or wanting a delicious side dish, these bites are versatile and packed with flavor. Their unique combination of broccoli and cheese will impress even the pickiest eaters while providing a nutritious option that everyone can enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bites in no time.
- Flavor-Packed: The blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible cheesy flavor that complements the broccoli perfectly.
- Versatile Snack: Suitable for parties, as a side dish, or a quick snack at home; they fit any occasion.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these cheese balls offer a healthier way to indulge in a cheesy treat.
- Kid-Friendly: Even kids who are reluctant to eat vegetables may love these tasty bites!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl
- Steamer or pot for steaming broccoli
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even baking without sticking.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray: Prevents the cheese balls from sticking, ensuring easy removal after baking.
- Large mixing bowl: Offers enough space to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Ingredients
A crispy, cheesy snack packed with broccoli, perfect as an appetizer or side dish. These baked broccoli cheese balls are easy to make and loaded with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets (finely chopped)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (for binding)
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs (for binding)
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for binding)
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for seasoning)
– 1/2 tsp onion powder (for seasoning)
– to taste salt and pepper
– as needed cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool before finely chopping.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place these on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Them
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. If you desire extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly before serving warm with marinara sauce or ranch dip. Enjoy your deliciously cheesy snacks!
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked broccoli cheese balls are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, they pair well with various dips and sides.
With Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: A classic choice, marinara adds a tangy flavor that complements the cheesy goodness.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, ranch dressing is perfect for those who love a rich dip.
- Sriracha Aioli: For a spicy kick, mix sriracha with mayonnaise and garlic for an adventurous dip.
As Part of a Platter
- Vegetable Platter: Serve these cheese balls alongside fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a colorful spread.
- Cheese Board: Incorporate them into your cheese board for an added texture and flavor contrast with various cheeses.
- Charcuterie Board: Pair them with meats, olives, and fruits for an elegant touch.
In a Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss warm broccoli cheese balls onto a bed of mixed greens with your favorite dressing for a hearty salad.
- Caesar Salad: Replace croutons with these cheesy bites for a unique twist on the traditional Caesar.
How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To make sure your baked broccoli cheese balls turn out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli not only adds better flavor but also retains its texture during baking.
- Chop Finely: Ensuring the broccoli is finely chopped helps the mixture bind well and form perfect balls.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Using high-quality cheddar and Parmesan will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Test for Consistency: The mixture should hold together easily. If it’s too dry, add another egg; if too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking to prevent over-browning; adjust based on your oven’s specifics.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allowing them to cool slightly helps maintain their shape when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked broccoli cheese balls are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with tasty side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the cheesy texture of broccoli cheese balls.
- Cauliflower Rice: Light and healthy, cauliflower rice complements these bites without overwhelming them.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds nutritional value and pairs well with the flavors of the cheese balls.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers add a vibrant touch and make for a filling side dish.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide sweetness that balances the savory cheese flavor.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers freshness and a nice contrast in textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making baked broccoli cheese balls can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Skipping the chopping step: Ensure you finely chop the steamed broccoli. Large pieces won’t bind well or cook evenly.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs provide better texture and flavor. Always check the expiration date.
- Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mixture with salt and pepper. Taste it before baking to adjust flavors.
- Not preheating the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking. This helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Give each ball space on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy bites.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Freeze individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Check for even heating.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick skillet with a little oil until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about baked broccoli cheese balls:
What is the best way to serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Baked broccoli cheese balls are delicious served warm with marinara or ranch dip on the side, making them perfect for sharing.
Can I make these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the balls in advance, then store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.
Are there any variations for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Absolutely! You can add different cheeses like mozzarella or incorporate spices such as cayenne for extra heat.
How do I know when my Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are done?
Look for a golden brown color on the outside. A slight crispiness indicates they are perfectly cooked inside.
Final Thoughts
These baked broccoli cheese balls offer a delightful mix of crispy outside and cheesy inside, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables for added flavor. Try this recipe today and enjoy a tasty, nutritious treat!
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and nutritious treat that combines the crispiness of baked goodness with the rich flavors of cheese and broccoli. Perfect for any occasion, these savory bites serve as a delightful appetizer, a healthy snack, or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Made with fresh ingredients and baked to perfection, they are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauces or incorporate them into salads for added texture and flavor. Easy to prepare and packed with cheesy goodness, these bites make for an ideal addition to your meal plan.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Garlic powder and onion powder for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and steam broccoli until tender-crisp.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheeses, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown; broil for an additional minute for extra crispiness if desired.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls (60g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
