A crispy, cheesy snack, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful way to enjoy broccoli while satisfying your craving for something cheesy. Perfect for appetizers, side dishes, or even a fun snack, these balls are packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Their versatility makes them suitable for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Step 3: Form the Balls
- Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown
- Step 5: Serve Warm
- How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- With Dipping Sauces
- As Part of a Platter
- In a Salad
- How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Reheating Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls healthy?
- Can I customize my Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
- What dips pair well with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
- Can I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these up in no time.
- Flavorful: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, cheesy taste that complements the broccoli beautifully.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. They pair well with dips like marinara or ranch.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients from broccoli, these bites are a delicious way to sneak more vegetables into your diet.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy snacks!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Steamer or pot for steaming broccoli
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the cheese balls, ensuring they cook thoroughly.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without making a mess.
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 heats up, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool before finely chopping.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and all-purpose flour. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Form the Balls
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place each ball on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese balls turn golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes while keeping a close eye on them.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving warm. These delicious bites pair perfectly with marinara sauce or ranch dip. Enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various dips and side dishes for an unforgettable experience. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment of these crispy, cheesy snacks.
With Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, marinara adds a tangy flavor that complements the cheese.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy and zesty, ranch dressing is a favorite for those who love a little extra richness.
- Garlic Aioli: This creamy garlic sauce enhances the savory notes of the broccoli cheese balls.
As Part of a Platter
- Veggie Platter: Serve alongside fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for a colorful appetizer spread.
- Cheese Board: Add them to a cheese board with assorted cheeses and crackers for a delightful snack option.
In a Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss them into a mixed green salad for added texture and flavor.
- Caesar Salad: Replace croutons with baked broccoli cheese balls for a unique twist on this classic dish.
How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To ensure your baked broccoli cheese balls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Freshly steamed broccoli provides better flavor and texture compared to frozen.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the balls hold their shape.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Space them apart to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to add more spices or herbs based on your preference. Experiment with flavors!
- Check for Doneness: They should be golden brown; if not, bake a bit longer for that perfect crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls serve wonderfully as an appetizer or snack. Enhance your meal by pairing them with these fantastic side dishes.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly, adding another layer of flavor.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty complement to the lightness of the cheese balls.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Quinoa Salad: This nutrient-dense salad is light yet filling, making it an ideal accompaniment.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a delightful pairing.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve with spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and herbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making baked broccoli cheese balls can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the Broccoli: If you cook the broccoli too long, it will become mushy and lose its flavor. Steam it until just tender-crisp.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Skipping precise measurements can lead to a dry or overly wet mixture. Use a measuring cup for accuracy.
- Ignoring the Binding Agents: Forgetting to use enough eggs or breadcrumbs may cause the balls to fall apart while baking. Ensure you follow the recipe closely.
- Skipping Seasoning: Without proper seasoning, your cheese balls may taste bland. Don’t skip the garlic and onion powder; they add essential flavor.
- Crowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many cheese balls close together can cause them to steam instead of bake. Give them space on the baking sheet.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
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, checking often so they don’t become soggy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about baked broccoli cheese balls that can help you out.
How do I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls healthy?
You can use whole wheat breadcrumbs and reduce cheese quantity or substitute with low-fat options for a healthier version.
Can I customize my Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Absolutely! You can add different cheeses or incorporate other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for variety.
What dips pair well with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
They taste great with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even homemade garlic aioli.
Can I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge or freeze them for later use.
Final Thoughts
Baked broccoli cheese balls are not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. They make an excellent appetizer or snack that everyone will love. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste!
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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful, crispy snack that combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli with rich, melty cheese. These savory bites are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether as a healthy appetizer, a fun snack for the family, or a party treat. With their irresistible cheesy flavor and satisfying crunch, they will quickly become a favorite at your table. Plus, they are versatile enough to pair with various dips like marinara or ranch dressing, making them an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp (about 3-5 minutes). Cool and chop finely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional minute or two.
- Allow cooling slightly before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
