Are you looking for a delightful snack that packs a nutritional punch?
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are not just a treat for your taste buds but a fantastic way to consume veggies without feeling like you’re eating healthy. I love serving these crispy balls with a zesty dipping sauce, and trust me; they disappear within minutes at gatherings. They are the perfect blend of crunchy on the outside and cheese-filled goodness on the inside.
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Why Should You Try Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Now?
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a nutrient-rich snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
If you’re searching for a healthy treat that’s loaded with flavor, these little bites are just what you need. Packed with tender broccoli, melty cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs, they not only appeal to kids and adults alike but also make a great after-school snack or appetizer for parties. The comfort of cheesy goodness combined with the health benefits of broccoli makes this recipe a must-try. Plus, they can be prepped ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners or healthy lunches. Try them along with a flavorful vegetable wellington for a complete meal!
What Makes This Healthy Snack Unique?
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls stand out due to their crispy texture and cheesy flavor without the frying!
This recipe shines because it uses baked instead of fried techniques to achieve a delicious crunch. The combination of shredded cheddar and Parmesan gives a richness that creates a fantastic balance with the chopped broccoli. I also like that we can easily customize the seasoning to suit our taste buds, making it versatile for various palates. To add even more depth of flavor, consider checking out this detailed article on broccoli’s benefits for more inspiration on this nutritious ingredient! You can also try incorporating roasted garlic for an extra savory note and serving them with a homemade garlic dipping sauce.
What Ingredients Do You Need to Make These Balls?
You’ll want simple, fresh ingredients to create these delightful bites.
| Ingredients | Quantities |
|---|---|
| Broccoli florets, finely chopped | 2 cups |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/3 cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Cooking spray or olive oil | for greasing |
Let’s talk about broccoli! This superfood is not only low in calories but high in vitamins C and K, and it’s also a great source of dietary fiber. The addition of cheese not only adds flavor but offers calcium and protein. If you want to avoid gluten, you can easily swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free options. The egg acts as a binder which is essential for keeping the balls intact during baking. Using different types of cheese can also tweak the flavor, so feel free to get creative!
How Do You Make These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is a super simple process that anyone can follow!
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or drizzle olive oil. Next, steam or blanch your broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes until they are just tender. Make sure to drain them well before finely chopping the florets.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they form a cohesive mixture that holds together. Use your hands if necessary; it’s therapeutic!
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or olive oil to encourage browning. Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remember to serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Nutritional Values (per serving) | Calories: 150, Protein: 7g, Fat: 9g |
Remember to check the balls in the oven, as everyone’s oven can differ slightly! They should have a wonderful golden finish, signaling their crispiness.
What are Some Variations and Serving Suggestions?
There are endless ways to put your unique spin on Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls!
Diet Swap
For a vegan adaptation, swap out the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture as a binder and choose a plant-based cheese alternative. The flavor will still be wonderful while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Flavor Variation
To add a kick, consider incorporating chopped jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture. You could also try mixing different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for a rich twist. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavors even further. Try these baked cheese bites alongside a rich and savory mushroom ragu for an exciting meal.
Serving Idea
Serve these tasty bites with a variety of dipping sauces; ranch dressing, marinara, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are fabulous choices. They make a fantastic addition to a party platter alongside veggie sticks and pita chips as well!
| Suggested Pairings | Notes |
|---|---|
| Dipping Sauce | Ranch, marinara, or sriracha mayo |
| Accompanying Dishes | Veggie sticks, pita chips, or a fresh garden salad |
These variations open up a world of tastes and textures, and the ability to experiment makes this recipe more engaging and fun!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls enough! Whether you are snacking solo or hosting a casual get-together, these crunchy bites will be a star of the show. They are not only easy to make but are also a fantastic way to integrate veggies into your diet while indulging in cheesy goodness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that delightful crunch. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later; you’ll definitely want to make it again! Check out my Pinterest for more delicious recipes!
FAQ
Can I freeze Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Absolutely! You can freeze these broccoli cheese balls before or after baking. If freezing before baking, form the balls and place them on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake them, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even finely chopped oats. Each of these substitutes will maintain the overall texture and binding properties needed for the cheese balls.
Are there any gluten-free options?
Yes! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground almond flour to substitute regular breadcrumbs, making these cheese balls suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in an oven or air fryer to regain their crispy texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Chopped carrots, spinach, or even finely diced bell peppers can be incorporated into the mix for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the quantities to maintain the right binder to veggie ratio.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a tasty and healthy snack that everyone will love, offering a crunchy texture with cheesy goodness.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups Broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 Large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or drizzle olive oil.
- Steam or blanch your broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes until tender. Drain well and finely chop them.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls can be prepped ahead of time and are perfect for sharing at gatherings. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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