=== console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. === console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. === console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. === console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. === console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. === console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. === console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. === console.log('header!'); // Easy to add and display post grid on your website with or without categoryies filter. Also work with Gutenberg shortcode block. Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: clara
  • 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

Scale
  • 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

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Steam & Chop Broccoli

  1. Steam or blanch broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, then drain well.
  2. Finely chop or pulse in a food processor until small pieces form.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, ½ cup breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. 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

  1. Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
  2. Coat each ball in the remaining ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

  1. Arrange balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  2. Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
  2. 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.