The aroma of freshly baked broccoli cheese balls fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to indulge. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, these little gems are not just a snack; they are a full-on flavor party in your mouth. broccoli bowls with creamy sauce Picture this: golden-brown morsels bursting with cheesy goodness and a subtle hint of broccoli that makes you feel like you’re being virtuous while indulging.
I remember the first time I made baked broccoli cheese balls. My friends gathered around, skeptical yet intrigued. One bite later, they were convinced that veggies could indeed be delicious. mini cheesecakes for dessert Whether it’s a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner, these bites always bring smiles and happy bellies.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked broccoli cheese balls are easy to prepare and come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor is a delightful blend of savory cheese and fresh broccoli that everyone loves
- Their vibrant green color adds visual appeal to any plate or platter
- Versatile enough for appetizers or snacks, they cater to both kids and adults alike
I once brought these to a potluck, and let’s just say I had to guard my dish like it was gold!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli: Use bright green florets for the best texture and flavor; steam lightly for tenderness.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar works wonders here—sharp or mild based on your preference will do the trick.
- Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain or seasoned breadcrumbs; they help bind everything while adding crunch.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder in this recipe, keeping those cheesy broccoli bites intact during baking.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder elevates the flavor profile without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; they enhance all the flavors beautifully!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Broccoli: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli until tender but still vibrant green—about 3-4 minutes should do.
Mash It Up: In a large bowl, mash the steamed broccoli with a fork until there are no large chunks left. You want it mixed well but not mushy!
Add Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the mashed broccoli. Mix until everything is evenly coated and combined.
Scoop & Shape: Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you want to get fancy), shape the mixture into small balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake Until Golden: Pop them into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside—your kitchen will smell divine!
These baked broccoli cheese balls are not only satisfying but also fun to make! Enjoy sharing them with friends or keep them all for yourself—no judgment here! savory beef kofta kebabs.
You Must Know
- Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful snack that combines health and indulgence
- The contrast of crispy edges with gooey cheese creates an irresistible treat
- These balls pack a punch of flavor and are perfect for parties or as an appetizer that even kids will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, mix your ingredients in one bowl, then shape into balls and bake until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the broccoli with spinach or kale for variety. You can also add spices like garlic powder or red pepper flakes to give a kick to your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. For more inspiration, check out this honey balsamic Brussels sprouts recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste. fresh tomato and artichoke salad.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly round Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, use a cookie scoop
- This ensures uniform size and even cooking
- Always squeeze out excess moisture from broccoli to avoid sogginess
- Finally, let them cool slightly before serving to maintain their delicious shape
I remember the first time I made Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls; my friends devoured them within minutes, claiming they were better than pizza! Their joy reminded me how good food brings people together.
FAQ
Can I freeze Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Yes, you can freeze them unbaked or baked for later enjoyment without losing flavor.
What cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella adds great stringiness for that cheesy goodness.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a tasty alternative.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful crunch of Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, where crispy exteriors meet a gooey, cheesy center. These savory bites are packed with flavor and are perfect for parties or as a wholesome snack. With fresh broccoli and melted cheddar cheese, you can enjoy a delicious treat that feels indulgent yet nutritious. Easy to make and sure to impress friends and family, these bites are a must-try!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Steam the broccoli until tender but bright green, about 3-4 minutes. Mash it in a large bowl.
- Mix in the shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls (about one inch in diameter) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider swapping broccoli with spinach or kale. Customize your cheese choice; mozzarella provides great stretchiness. To keep the balls from getting soggy, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the steamed broccoli.
