Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

I absolutely love discovering new ways to get my family to eat more veggies, and these Broccoli Cheese Balls have quickly become a favorite in our household. With their crunchy, golden-brown exterior and warm, cheesy interior, these bite-sized snacks are the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or serving them as a fun appetizer at a party, these broccoli cheese balls are always a hit!

The best part? They’re simple to make and can be customized with various cheeses and seasonings. I’m sure once you try them, you’ll find they’re not only delicious but also an easy way to sneak in some extra greens. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Broccoli cheese balls are the ultimate comfort food with a nutritious twist. They’re crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, making them irresistible. Whether you serve them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these broccoli cheese balls are bound to be a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? They’re so versatile—you can easily customize them with your favorite cheese or even sneak in other veggies to suit your taste!

What Kind of Broccoli Should I Use for Broccoli Cheese Balls?

When making broccoli cheese balls, I recommend using fresh broccoli florets. Fresh broccoli gives the balls a perfect texture and keeps that vibrant green color. You’ll want to steam or blanch the broccoli before mixing it into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. Be sure to chop the broccoli into small pieces so it integrates well into the cheesy filling.

For a faster option, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it completely to avoid excess moisture, which could make the cheese balls soggy.

Options for Substitutions

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are several easy substitutions you can try depending on your preferences or dietary restrictions:

• Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option, or even crushed crackers like Ritz for a different flavor and texture.
• Egg Substitute: For a vegan version, try using a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons of water) as a binder.
• Vegetables: If you’re not a fan of broccoli, try swapping it out for cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini for a similar texture with a different taste.

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli

Fresh or frozen broccoli florets form the base of these cheese balls, providing a nutritious and vibrant green filling. The broccoli is blanched or steamed before being chopped into small pieces, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the cheese and breadcrumbs.

Cheese

Cheddar cheese is the go-to for its sharp, melty goodness. It adds rich flavor and helps bind the ingredients together. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for varying textures and tastes.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs give these cheese balls their signature crispy exterior. They help the balls hold their shape while baking and create a satisfying crunch. Use regular or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.

Eggs

Eggs act as the binder, helping to hold everything together while providing moisture. They also help give the broccoli cheese balls their firm texture once cooked.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder adds a mild, aromatic flavor to the cheese balls, enhancing the overall savory taste. You can also use fresh garlic, but garlic powder blends in smoothly with the other ingredients.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan gives these cheese balls an extra savory punch. It’s optional, but it adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the cheddar perfectly.

Salt and Pepper

A pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper is essential for seasoning. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.

Olive Oil (for coating)

Brushing the broccoli cheese balls with a little olive oil before baking ensures a golden-brown, crispy finish. You can also use melted butter for a richer flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by preparing your broccoli. If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until tender, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly. After it’s cooked, chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces. Set it aside to cool down.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Crack in the eggs and stir everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too wet. If it feels too dry, add a bit more cheese or a touch of olive oil to bring it together.

Step 3: Shape the Cheese Balls

Using your hands, scoop a small amount of the broccoli mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Repeat with the rest of the mixture. You’ll have around 12 to 16 cheese balls, depending on how large you make them.

Step 4: Coat the Cheese Balls

To give the broccoli cheese balls a crispy exterior, gently roll each ball in a dish of breadcrumbs, making sure they’re evenly coated on all sides. This extra layer will ensure they bake to a nice golden brown.

Step 5: Bake the Cheese Balls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil to help with crisping. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or a tangy dipping mustard.

How Long to Cook the Broccoli Cheese Balls

The broccoli cheese balls will need about 20-25 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C). This ensures the cheese inside is melted, and the exterior turns crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary, and you want to avoid over-baking them, which could make them too dry.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

1. Drain Excess Moisture: If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to squeeze out any excess water after thawing. Too much moisture can cause the cheese balls to fall apart during baking.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy finish, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They provide a lighter, crunchier texture that makes the cheese balls irresistible.
3. Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix them just enough to incorporate everything. Overmixing can make the texture dense, rather than light and fluffy.
4. Test the First Ball: After shaping and coating your first cheese ball, bake it for 10 minutes. If it holds together and has a good texture, you’re ready to bake the rest. If it’s too soft, add more breadcrumbs or cheese to the mixture.
5. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush or spray the cheese balls with olive oil before baking. This helps them crisp up beautifully and adds a subtle flavor.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Too Much Moisture: If your broccoli mixture is too wet, the cheese balls won’t hold their shape while baking. Make sure to drain any excess water from the broccoli, especially if using frozen broccoli. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs or cheese to firm it up.
2. Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: To ensure even cooking and crispiness, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Arrange the broccoli cheese balls in a single layer with some space between them. This allows air to circulate and ensures they bake evenly.
3. Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps the cheese balls cook evenly and ensures they get that golden, crispy exterior.
4. Not Using Enough Cheese: Cheese is the star of this recipe. Be generous with your cheese, especially the cheddar, as it provides flavor, moisture, and helps the balls stick together. Don’t skimp on it!
5. Baking at Too High a Temperature: While you want the cheese balls crispy, baking them at too high a temperature can cause them to brown too quickly on the outside without fully cooking inside. Stick to 375°F for the perfect balance.

What to Serve With Broccoli Cheese Balls?

1. Dipping Sauces

Pair your broccoli cheese balls with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or honey mustard for an extra burst of flavor.

2. A Side Salad

For a light meal or appetizer, serve them with a fresh green salad. The crispiness of the cheese balls pairs wonderfully with something light and refreshing like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.

3. Garlic Bread

Serve these cheese balls with a side of crispy garlic bread for a comforting, carb-filled duo. The garlic butter pairs perfectly with the cheese flavor in the balls.

4. Vegetable Soup

These cheese balls make a great accompaniment to a hearty vegetable soup or creamy tomato soup. The richness of the soup balances out the crispness of the cheese balls.

5. Roasted Potatoes

Serve with crispy roasted potatoes for a complete meal. The potatoes can be seasoned with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic, complementing the flavor of the broccoli cheese balls.

6. Grilled Chicken

For a more filling meal, pair these cheese balls with grilled chicken breast or thighs. The juicy, savory chicken pairs perfectly with the cheesy, crispy broccoli balls.

7. Steamed Vegetables

For a healthy touch, serve alongside steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, or peas. It’s a great way to balance the richness of the cheese balls with some lighter, colorful veggies.

8. Pasta Salad

Pair these cheese balls with a refreshing pasta salad, like a classic Italian-style pasta salad or something creamy like a ranch pasta salad. The pasta offers a nice contrast in texture to the crisp cheese balls.

Storage Instructions

Broccoli cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. For an extra crispy texture, reheating them in the oven is the best option.

If you have leftovers and want to freeze them, place the cheese balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general idea of the nutrition breakdown for one broccoli cheese ball (this may vary depending on ingredients and portion size):

• Calories: 100-120 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 200mg

These values are an approximation and may vary based on substitutions or portion sizes. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of cheese or breadcrumbs, or even bake them instead of frying to cut down on calories and fat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these broccoli cheese balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broccoli cheese balls ahead of time. Once shaped, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze them, then bake directly from frozen when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients.

3. Can I make these broccoli cheese balls without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute like flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) to bind the ingredients together. Alternatively, you could use a store-bought egg replacer or even mashed potatoes.

4. Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, you can fry the broccoli cheese balls for a crispier exterior. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the balls in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.

5. How can I make these dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese substitute and skip the parmesan. For the egg, you can use a flax egg or other vegan binders like chickpea flour mixed with water.

6. Can I use other vegetables in these cheese balls?

Absolutely! You can swap the broccoli for other veggies like cauliflower, spinach, or even zucchini. Just make sure to chop them finely and remove excess moisture before mixing.

7. Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Gouda would work great in place of cheddar. You can also combine different cheeses for added flavor.

8. How long will these cheese balls last in the fridge?

In an airtight container, these broccoli cheese balls can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to reheat them properly before serving.

Conclusion

These broccoli cheese balls are an easy and delicious way to add a little extra veggie goodness to your meals. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends! Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for later, and be sure to share it with your loved ones so they can enjoy these cheesy bites too!

Print