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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Your New Favorite Finger Food

Picture this: a platter of golden, crispy bites that are perfectly crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and bursting with the fresh flavor of broccoli. These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a nutritious and delicious snack or appetizer, perfect for any occasion. Baked, not fried, they’re guilt-free and versatile—serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. Kid-friendly and meal prep-friendly, they’re bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 20-24 balls 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped or grated
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli until tender but firm, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and cool, then chop or grate finely.
  2. Mix Ingredients: Combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Add Eggs: Stir in beaten eggs until the mixture is well coated.
  4. Shape Balls: Shape into 1-inch balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
  5. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray or brush balls with oil, then bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

  • Use frozen broccoli if you’re short on time, but ensure to squeeze out excess moisture.
  • For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
  • For a vegan version, swap cheese for dairy-free alternatives and use flax eggs.
  • Author: Anna Gomez
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: per 2 broccoli cheese balls
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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