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
- 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.