Get ready for a deliciously crunchy, cheesy bite that’s packed with flavor and nutrition! These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate appetizer, snack, or side dish—great for parties, lunchboxes, or a healthy family treat. Plus, they’re easy to make and customizable to fit different diets!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Crispy outside, gooey inside – The perfect texture combo!
✅ Kid-friendly & veggie-loaded – Sneak in extra greens effortlessly.
✅ Baked, not fried – Healthier but just as delicious.
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Make ahead and reheat easily.
Ingredients
For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any melty cheese)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 1 egg, beaten (or flax egg for vegan)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Baking:
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for extra crispiness)
Dipping Sauce Ideas:
- Ranch
- Marinara
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy mayo
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prep the Broccoli
- Steam or boil chopped broccoli for 3–4 minutes until tender.
- Drain well and pat dry with a towel (excess moisture makes them soggy).
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Broccoli
- Cheddar, Parmesan
- Breadcrumbs, egg
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper
- Mix until well combined (should hold together when pressed).
3. Shape the Balls
- Roll into 1-inch balls (about the size of a walnut).
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly spray or brush with oil for extra crispiness.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- They’re done when golden brown and crispy!
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Best served warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
✅ Yes!
- Uncooked: Store shaped balls in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- Cooked: Reheat in the oven or air fryer for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
2. Can I freeze them?
✅ Absolutely!
- Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag.
- Bake straight from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
3. How do I keep them from falling apart?
- Squeeze out excess water from broccoli.
- If too wet, add extra breadcrumbs.
- Let mixture rest 5 minutes before shaping.
4. Can I make them gluten-free or vegan?
✅ Yes!
- Gluten-free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Vegan: Swap cheese for dairy-free shreds + flax egg.
5. Can I air-fry these?
✅ Yes! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – 3 Balls)
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 7g |
Pro Tips for Success
🔥 Dry the broccoli well – Prevents sogginess!
🧀 Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded has anti-caking agents.
🍽 Double the batch – They disappear fast!
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve with marinara or ranch.
- Side dish: Pair with grilled chicken or fish.
- Snack: Pack in lunchboxes (great cold too!).
Final Thoughts
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a guilt-free, flavor-packed snack that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something crispy and cheesy, this recipe is a must-try!
Have you made veggie cheese balls before? What’s your favorite variation? Share below! 👇💬
Happy cooking! 🎉🧀
