Irresistible Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
These irresistible baked broccoli cheese balls are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish. Made with fresh broccoli, cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and crispy panko breadcrumbs, they offer a perfect balance of cheesy flavor and a satisfying crunch without the guilt of frying.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 broccoli cheese balls 1x
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Others
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the finely chopped broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they become tender but still retain their vibrant green color. Then, allow them to cool completely to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, and eggs. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter using your hands. Place the broccoli cheese balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the balls turn golden brown and have a crispy outer layer, indicating they are perfectly cooked inside.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve these baked broccoli cheese balls warm as a delightful snack or a tasty side dish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- These can be prepared ahead and frozen; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- To make the balls crispier, lightly spray with cooking oil before baking.
- Ensure broccoli is well drained after steaming to prevent the mixture from being too wet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 broccoli cheese balls (approx. 70g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese balls, baked broccoli balls, healthy snack, vegetarian snack, cheesy broccoli bites