Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls – Page 2

Ingredients for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are incredibly simple to make, using only a few ingredients you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese you prefer, like mozzarella or a blend)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch, or whole wheat for a healthier option)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg (to bind the ingredients together)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:

These cheesy, veggie-packed bites come together in just a few easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop the broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained well. Then, steam or blanch the broccoli until it’s tender but still bright green. Once cooked, chop the broccoli finely or pulse it a few times in a food processor to break it down into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until it forms a sticky, cohesive mixture. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds together easily.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Repeat the process until all the mixture is used. You should be able to make around 15-20 balls, depending on the size.

Step 5: Bake the Cheese Balls

Place the broccoli cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the broccoli cheese balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm, right out of the oven, or at room temperature. For an extra burst of flavor, serve them with a side of dipping sauce like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a tangy mustard dip.

Tips for Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:

Finely Chop the Broccoli: The key to these cheese balls is making sure the broccoli is finely chopped or grated. This will help the mixture hold together better and prevent the balls from falling apart during baking.
Make Them Ahead: You can make the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This gives the flavors more time to meld together, and it’s also a great time-saver if you’re prepping for a party or busy weeknight.
Customize the Cheese: While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, you can get creative with the cheese. Try mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. A blend of cheeses can give your cheese balls extra depth.
Add Herbs and Spices: Feel free to season the mixture with your favorite herbs and spices. Fresh basil, thyme, or even a sprinkle of paprika can take these cheese balls to the next level.
Freeze for Later: These cheese balls freeze well! Simply freeze the uncooked balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can bake them directly from frozen—just add an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions:

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

As a Snack: Serve them on their own with a dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or a simple yogurt dip.
As an Appetizer: These cheese balls make a great party appetizer. Serve them on a platter with a bowl of your favorite dipping sauce.
As a Side Dish: Pair them with a hearty main dish like grilled chicken, pasta, or a quinoa salad for a well-rounded meal.
In a Lunchbox: Pack them in a lunchbox for a kid-friendly, nutritious snack that’s sure to be a hit with picky eaters.
With a Salad: For a light lunch or dinner, enjoy these cheese balls alongside a fresh green salad or mixed greens.

Why You’ll Love Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:

Kid-Friendly: These cheese balls are a great way to get kids to eat their veggies without any complaints. The cheese hides the broccoli, making it an appealing snack for even the pickiest eaters.
Healthy & Guilt-Free: Unlike many fried snacks, these broccoli cheese balls are baked, making them a healthier choice. They’re also packed with nutritious broccoli, fiber, and protein, giving you a satisfying and nutritious snack.
Flavorful: With the combination of cheddar and Parmesan, plus the savory garlic powder, these cheese balls are bursting with cheesy goodness in every bite.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings, add-ins, or cheese varieties to suit your tastes. You can even sneak in other veggies like spinach or cauliflower for a nutrient-packed treat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun, healthy, and delicious snack, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the answer! They’re easy to make, incredibly versatile, and a great way to enjoy more vegetables. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or an after-school snack, these cheese balls will be a hit with everyone in the family.

Give this recipe a try and watch as these bite-sized treats disappear in no time. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a cozy afternoon snack, these cheesy broccoli balls will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

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