These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, and packed with flavorful, nutrient-rich broccoli! Perfect as a healthy appetizer, snack, or side dish, these bites are easy to make, kid-friendly, and great for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & cheesy – A crunchy, golden exterior with a gooey cheese center.
- Healthier alternative – Baked, not fried!
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients, ready in 30 minutes.
- Perfect for kids – A fun way to sneak in veggies.
- Great for meal prep – Freezer-friendly and reheats well.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- Ranch dressing, marinara, or honey mustard
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- If using fresh broccoli, steam or boil for 3-4 minutes, then finely chop.
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw completely and drain excess moisture before chopping.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until the mixture holds together.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Step 4: Bake
- Arrange the broccoli balls on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or brush with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 (makes about 20 balls)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add 1 tsp hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes.
- Extra Cheesy – Use mozzarella or pepper jack cheese.
- Low-Carb/Keto – Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free – Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and drain well before using.
How do I make them crispier?
Lightly spray with olive oil before baking.
Can I fry these instead?
Yes! Shallow-fry in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely! Try adding grated zucchini or carrots.
What dipping sauces go best with these?
Ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or spicy aioli work great!
Can I air-fry these?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Do I need to chill them before baking?
Not necessary, but chilling for 15 minutes can help them hold their shape.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a healthy and delicious appetizer or snack. Whether you serve them for game day, family dinner, or meal prep, they’re sure to be a hit! Try them today and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Print
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, and packed with savory flavors! They make a delicious appetizer, snack, or side dish—and they’re a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped or grated broccoli (steamed or blanched!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar & mozzarella!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (divided, for crispiness!)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder!)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor!)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste!)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Dipping (Optional):
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
- Honey mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Steam & Chop Broccoli
- Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, then drain well.
- Finely chop or pulse in a food processor until small pieces form.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, ½ cup breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until everything sticks together. (If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a little more egg!)
Step 4: Form & Coat the Balls
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Coat each ball in the remaining ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
- Arrange balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
- Enjoy as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer: Serve with ranch, marinara, or honey mustard.
- As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken or fish.
- For Meal Prep: Pack in lunchboxes for a healthy snack!
Notes
- Want it cheesier? Add a cube of mozzarella in the center before rolling.
- Make it spicier! Add ¼ tsp cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Gluten-Free? Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.