Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Are you on the hunt for a fun and tasty way to incorporate more veggies into your family’s meals? Look no further than these delicious Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls! Imagine golden-brown bites filled with tender broccoli and melted cheese, every crisp exterior hiding a soft, cheesy surprise inside. These broccoli balls not only satisfy the taste buds but also add a delightful crunch that will make both kids and adults eager for seconds.

I created this dish on a chilly evening when my kids were skeptical about eating their greens. To my pleasant surprise, they transformed into broccoli devotees within minutes! With just a handful of ingredients, these bites are simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for family gatherings. If you’re a fan of other fantastic veggie-based recipes like my Zucchini Fritters, you’ll want to add these crispy delights to your repertoire.

What are Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?

So, what’s the story behind the name Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls? Well, it’s pretty self-explanatory, isn’t it? But have you ever wondered why they aren’t called “Broccoli Cheesy Crunchies” or something equally whimsical? Regardless of their name, there’s no denying that these bites are packed with flavor and fun. Traditionally seen on appetizer tables or as a side dish, they might even make you ponder the age-old saying: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” Want to win everyone over at your next family gathering? Give these a try!

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Let’s be honest: balancing nutrition and flavor can sometimes be a daunting task. Luckily, these Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls hit the jackpot! Not only can they serve as a delightful main dish or a tension-tamer when the kids are fidgeting, but they also save you money by utilizing affordable ingredients right from your pantry.

You can effortlessly enjoy the sensational crunch and the rich, gooey cheese while being mindful of your budget. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce or a sprinkle of aromatic herbs, these broccoli balls are not far off from enjoying a rich, cheesy pizza experience but with a healthy vegetable twist! So why wait? Gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious recipe!

How to Make Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Quick Overview

Crafting these bites is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll create crispy balls that are perfectly baked with a satisfying crunch on the outside and creamy goodness on the inside. It’s the perfect recipe to whip up quickly for family dinners or to impress guests unexpectedly.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Key Ingredients for Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

To create these delightful Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheese (preferably cheddar or a Halal-friendly cheese)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat for a healthier twist)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten (or a seed-based egg replacement for a vegan option)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
• Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your broccoli balls will have a crisp texture when baked.
2. Cook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still vibrant green, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly before finely chopping.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Form the Balls: Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
5. Bake: Lightly spray the broccoli balls with cooking spray or drizzle them with olive oil for extra crispness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce!

Top Tips for Perfecting Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

1. Substitutions: Feel free to experiment! Swap the cheese for a vegan alternative if desired, or mix in other finely chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
2. Avoid Common Mistakes: Make sure to finely chop the broccoli and other ingredients to ensure they bind well together. Also, ensure you don’t overbake; the goal is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside!
3. Timing is Key: If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, you can double the recipe and freeze extras for quick meals later. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your delicious Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, these bites freeze well and can be kept for up to 3 months.

When it’s time to reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy!

Now you’re ready to enjoy delicious, savory Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. This dish makes vegetables not only tasty but a celebration on your dinner table! So, are you ready to dive into this easy, scrumptious recipe? Grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Delicious and crispy bites filled with tender broccoli and melted cheese, perfect for adding more veggies to your meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped Steamed until tender
• 1 cup shredded cheese (preferably cheddar or Halal-friendly)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) For healthier option
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten (or seed-based egg replacement) For vegan option
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
• Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender but vibrant green, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and cool slightly, then finely chop.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well incorporated.
4. Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and form them into 1-inch balls. Place on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between each ball.
5. Lightly spray the balls with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven, let cool for a couple of minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Substitutions include using vegan cheese or other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes.