Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; Garlic powder; Onion powder; Salt; Pepper

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

November 21, 2025

Updated:

November 21, 2025

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A delicious snack that everyone will love, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy, cheesy, and packed with nutrition. They make for a perfect appetizer or side dish for any gathering, be it a casual get-together or a festive celebration. The combination of broccoli and cheese not only provides great taste but also makes these bites a healthier option compared to traditional fried snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: These broccoli cheese balls can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Flavor-Packed: With a delightful blend of cheddar and Parmesan, every bite is bursting with cheesy goodness and subtle seasoning.
Versatile Snack: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or game day treat, these bites suit various occasions and preferences.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with broccoli, they provide nutritional benefits while satisfying your cravings for something savory.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy these tasty bites, making them a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your baked broccoli cheese balls, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Mixing bowl
Steamer basket (or pot with lid)
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon or cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Essential for evenly baking the cheese balls without sticking.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
Steamer basket: Helps cook the broccoli perfectly without losing nutrients.

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.

For the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

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)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your oven is hot enough to crisp up the cheese balls perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. After steaming, allow them to cool before finely chopping.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour.
2. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Using small portions of the mixture:
1. Roll into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.
2. Place each ball on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra crispiness:
1. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve

Allow the baked broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy them with marinara or ranch dip for added flavor!

How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked broccoli cheese balls are a versatile and delicious option for any gathering. They can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and appeal.

As an Appetizer

Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy sauce complements the cheesy goodness.
Pair with a creamy ranch dip for a classic flavor combination that everyone loves.

With Salads

Enjoy alongside a fresh garden salad. The crisp greens balance the richness of the cheese balls.
Add them to a Caesar salad for a unique twist on a traditional favorite.

As Party Snacks

Place them on a platter with assorted dips like hummus or tzatziki. This adds variety to your snack table.
Create mini sliders by sandwiching them between small buns with lettuce and tomato for an exciting bite-sized treat.

How to Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

To make your baked broccoli cheese balls even better, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli provides better flavor and texture compared to frozen.
Adjust seasoning: Tailor the garlic and onion powder to your taste, or add spices like paprika for extra flavor.
Let the mixture rest: Allowing it to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes rolling easier.
Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique twists on this recipe.
Avoid over-baking: Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time to prevent drying out; they should be golden but not overly crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked broccoli cheese balls pair well with many side dishes that can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a comforting touch that complements the cheesy bites perfectly.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the cheese balls.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables brings in more nutrients and adds color to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad can serve as a light side, enhancing your meal without overwhelming it.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges create a satisfying crunch, making them an ideal pairing.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad introduces sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory snacks like these cheese balls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some to watch out for:

Using Overcooked Broccoli: Overcooking broccoli can lead to mushy balls. Steam just until tender-crisp for the best texture.
Not Enough Binding Agents: If you skip or skimp on eggs and flour, your cheese balls may fall apart. Ensure you include enough for proper binding.
Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your mixture will result in bland bites. Don’t forget the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for flavor.
Crowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many cheese balls close together can cause them to steam instead of bake. Space them out to achieve that desired crispiness.
Ignoring Cooking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cheese balls; they should be golden brown but not overbaked.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Place cooled cheese balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes but expect softer results.
Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate it until ready to form and bake the balls.

How do I customize my Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Feel free to add different cheeses, herbs, or spices according to your taste preferences.

What dips pair well with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Marinara sauce and ranch dip are popular choices that complement the cheesy flavors wonderfully.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead?

Yes, just ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before using it in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful blend of crispy and cheesy goodness packed with nutrition. They make a versatile appetizer or snack option that can easily be customized based on what you have on hand. We encourage you to try this simple recipe and experiment with various ingredients!