These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and creative way to enjoy vegetables. Packed with savory cheddar and parmesan cheese, fresh broccoli, and a hint of garlic, they’re baked to crispy perfection. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a side dish, or a healthy snack, these cheese balls are a hit for kids and adults alike. With their crunchy exterior and cheesy, flavorful interior, they make eating veggies a lot more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture holds together.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a combination of your favorite cheeses for different flavors.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Flavor: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for added depth of flavor.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan mayo and cheese for a plant-based version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though they may lose some of their crispiness.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before chopping it.
- Can I prepare these cheese balls ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the cheese balls and refrigerate them before baking. This helps the mixture firm up and makes shaping easier.
- Can I freeze the cheese balls? Yes, these cheese balls freeze well. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- How do I get the cheese balls to stay together? Make sure the mixture is well-mixed and holds together when pressed. The breadcrumbs and egg help bind the ingredients.
- Can I bake these in an air fryer? Yes, you can air fry these cheese balls at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- What can I dip these cheese balls in? They go great with ranch, marinara sauce, or a simple garlic aioli for dipping.
- Can I use a different type of breadcrumbs? Yes, you can use panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- What other seasonings can I add to these cheese balls? You can experiment with paprika, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for additional flavor.
- Are these cheese balls suitable for kids? Yes, they are kid-friendly, and you can even make them smaller for a bite-sized snack.
- How do I ensure the cheese balls are crispy? Make sure to bake them until they are golden brown, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow the heat to circulate properly.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Balls are an easy, tasty, and versatile recipe that brings together the goodness of broccoli and the richness of cheese in a fun and bite-sized form. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With endless variation possibilities, these cheese balls are perfect for customizing to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Quick to prepare and bake, they make a delicious addition to any meal or party spread.
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Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These crispy and cheesy Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect way to sneak some veggies into your meal. With a delicious combination of cheddar, parmesan, and broccoli, they make a tasty snack or appetizer for any occasion. Baked until golden brown, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of garlic powder based on your preference.
- For a crunchier texture, increase the baking time slightly or broil the balls for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.
- If you want to make them ahead, store them in the fridge and bake just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes