There’s something undeniably magical about Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. Imagine golden, crispy little orbs that explode with cheesy goodness and a delightful crunch while still being packed with nutritious broccoli. broccoli and ground beef stir fry They smell heavenly as they bake, filling your kitchen with the aroma of melted cheese and roasted vegetables, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste before they even cool down. cheesy ground beef pasta dish.
These tasty bites hold a special place in my heart; I remember the first time I made them for a family gathering. The skeptical glances turned into smiles and nods of approval as everyone dug in. Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls will make you feel like a culinary genius, even if the only thing you’ve mastered is boiling water! For more inspiration, check out this Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- Their cheesy flavor combined with the nutritious broccoli makes them irresistible
- The vibrant green color adds a pop of freshness to your plate, making them visually appealing
- You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish!
I vividly recall one evening when I served these at a potluck; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how they were “the best healthy snack ever”!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor and nutrition; they’re the star of the show!
Shredded Cheese: Use your favorite cheese blend; cheddar works wonders in creating that gooey texture.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs to enhance flavor and create that perfect crispy coating.
Eggs: These help bind everything together; use fresh eggs for optimal results.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder brings out incredible flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the taste of your cheese balls; season generously but taste as you go.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare Your Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes; then chop finely.
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.
Form Your Balls: Scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet; they should be bite-sized but not too small.
Bake Those Little Gems!: Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye out for that irresistible cheesy aroma!
Serve and Enjoy!: Let them cool slightly before serving; these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are best enjoyed warm with your favorite dipping sauce! grilled cheese with a twist.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are not just delicious; they’re versatile enough to adapt to whatever occasion calls for tasty snacks! The next time you need a hit at your gathering or just feel like treating yourself to something indulgently cheesy yet surprisingly healthy, give this recipe a whirl!
You Must Know
- Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are not just a snack; they’re a delightful way to sneak veggies into your diet
- These little bites are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, making them perfect for parties or as a family-friendly side dish
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve golden, crispy broccoli cheese balls, bake them at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize by adding spices like garlic powder or cayenne for extra kick, or swap cheddar for your favorite cheese.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly shaped broccoli cheese balls, use a cookie scoop to keep them uniform
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; this keeps them light and fluffy
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors that elevate every bite
Sometimes I wonder if my family loves these broccoli cheese balls more than they love me, especially when they vanish within minutes of serving!
FAQ
Can I make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead and store uncooked in the fridge until ready to bake.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats for a delicious alternative.
What dipping sauces pair well with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or spicy aioli are excellent choices for dipping!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings (24 balls) 1x
Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a deliciously crispy and cheesy snack that brings nutritious broccoli into a fun, bite-sized treat. Perfect for parties or as a family-friendly side dish, these flavorful balls provide an irresistible crunch on the outside and gooey cheesiness on the inside. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up a batch of these delightful bites that are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls; place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls (60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg