There’s something truly delightful about healthy appetizers, don’t you think? They’re the perfect way to kick off any gathering, and my baked broccoli cheese balls recipe has become a go-to favorite in my home! These little bites are crispy on the outside and packed with cheesy goodness on the inside, making them an absolute hit with kids and adults alike. I remember the first time I served these at a family party; everyone was raving about them and asking for the recipe. They’re not just delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak some veggies into your meals. My kids love them, and I love knowing they’re getting a nutritious snack! Whether you’re hosting a game night, a cozy dinner, or just need a tasty treat to enjoy, these baked broccoli cheese balls are sure to impress. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one!
Ingredients List
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need for these scrumptious baked broccoli cheese balls. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- 2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped: Fresh or frozen works! Just make sure it’s cooked and chopped into small pieces for easy mixing.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: I love the sharp flavor it adds, but feel free to use any cheese you fancy!
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: This helps bind everything together and gives that wonderful crispy texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a nice depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs: These are your binding agents, keeping the balls nice and cohesive.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because who doesn’t love a bit of garlic flavor?
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness that balances everything out.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season to your liking!
- Olive oil spray: A light mist helps them get perfectly golden and crispy in the oven.
Gather all these ingredients, and you’ll be ready to whip up a batch of these delicious bites in no time!
How to Prepare Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! Preparing these baked broccoli cheese balls is a breeze, and I promise you’ll enjoy every minute of it. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready in no time!
- Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for achieving that golden crispy exterior.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. I usually use a spatula or my hands for this—just make sure it’s all mixed up nicely. You want to see that beautiful green broccoli and melted cheese all mixed together!
- Form the balls: Now, it’s time to get your hands a bit messy! Take a small amount of the mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it into a ball. Repeat this until all the mixture is used up. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; a little variation adds character!
- Prepare for baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place your broccoli cheese balls on the sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one so they can bake evenly.
- Spray with olive oil: Lightly spray the balls with olive oil. This little step makes such a difference, giving them that crunchy texture you’ll love!
- Bake: Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown and your kitchen starts to smell amazing!
- Cool and serve: Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help them firm up a bit more. Trust me, they’ll be worth the wait!
And there you have it! Simple, delicious, and utterly satisfying baked broccoli cheese balls ready to be devoured. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in just about 40 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute appetizer.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheesy goodness and tender broccoli creates a mouthwatering bite that everyone will love.
- Healthy Option: Packed with veggies and made with wholesome ingredients, these are a guilt-free treat!
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy these tasty balls, making them a great way to sneak in some greens.
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as a side dish—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them!
Tips for Success
To make sure your baked broccoli cheese balls turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, make sure your broccoli is well-drained if you’re using frozen. Excess moisture can lead to soggy balls, and nobody wants that! Also, don’t skip the olive oil spray; it’s key to achieving that golden, crispy exterior. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of water or an extra egg to help it hold together better.
When forming the balls, try to make them uniform in size for even baking—this way, you won’t have some that are overcooked and others that are underdone. If the mixture seems crumbly, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture. And lastly, don’t rush the cooling process after baking; letting them sit for a few minutes helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best parts about my baked broccoli cheese balls recipe is how easy it is to customize! If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick of spice. Adding fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill can elevate the flavor even more! You can also mix in some spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicy twist. For a cheesy surprise, throw in some crumbled feta or goat cheese! Get creative and make these little bites your own—there are endless possibilities to explore!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made your delicious baked broccoli cheese balls, you might find yourself with a few leftovers (if they last that long!). To store them, simply place the cooled balls in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy them throughout the week!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain their crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the outside is nice and crisp again. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be careful—this can make them a bit soggy. Just pop them in for about 30 seconds, keeping an eye on them. Enjoy your tasty bites again, just as good as the first time!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying my baked broccoli cheese balls, it’s always good to know what’s in them! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Typically, one serving (about 4 balls) contains around 200 calories, 10g of fat, 10g of protein, and just 1g of sugar. They’re also a great source of fiber, thanks to the broccoli! This makes them not only a tasty treat but a healthier option as well. Always feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, and enjoy guilt-free snacking!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of cooked? Yes! Just steam the fresh broccoli until it’s tender before chopping it up. This keeps the vibrant color and flavor intact.
How can I make these gluten-free? Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. They’ll still turn out delicious!
Can I freeze baked broccoli cheese balls? Absolutely! Once they’re cooled, place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them. After they’re frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep for about 2 months!
What dipping sauces pair well with these? I love serving them with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a zesty garlic aioli. They add an extra layer of flavor!
How do I know when they’re fully cooked? You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. A little crispiness on the outside is just what you want!
Print
Delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe for Comforting Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple recipe for baked broccoli cheese balls that are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the balls with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Can substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 balls
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: baked broccoli cheese balls recipe