These baked broccoli cheese balls are a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! They are packed with nutritious broccoli and gooey cheese, all mixed together and baked until golden.
Who knew eating your greens could be so exciting? I love serving these as a snack or appetizer; they disappear fast, especially when dipped in ranch or marinara sauce! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is a must for these balls. You can use frozen broccoli; just be sure to thaw and drain it well. I often like to combine broccoli with a little spinach for added color and nutrients!
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a salty flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs work great, but for a twist, use Panko for extra crunch. If you’re avoiding gluten, there are excellent gluten-free breadcrumbs available.
Fresh Parsley: This adds flavor and color. If you’re not a fan, swap it for basil or omit it entirely. I think a sprinkle of Italian seasoning works well too!
How Do I Make Sure My Broccoli Cheese Balls Hold Together?
The key to keeping your balls from falling apart is moisture management! After cooking your broccoli, be sure to dry it thoroughly with paper towels. Too much moisture will make the mixture too wet.
- Combine ingredients until sticky but not gooey. If the mix feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- When shaping the balls, press them firmly to help them hold their shape.
- Rolling them in breadcrumbs before baking also gives structure and helps them stay crispy.
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Broccoli Balls:
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
For Baking:
- Cooking spray or olive oil for the baking sheet
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking, making a total of around 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that comes together nicely, perfect for a snack or a side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and give it a light spray of cooking oil. This will keep your broccoli balls from sticking.
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
Next, take your fresh broccoli florets and steam or microwave them until just tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes. After cooking, drain them well and use paper towels to pat them dry. It’s important to get rid of any excess moisture to help the balls hold together!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your finely chopped broccoli, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Now, crack the two eggs into the mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should feel sticky enough to hold together when you start shaping them.
4. Shape the Balls:
Using your hands, take a portion of the mixture and shape it into golf ball-sized balls. Once formed, roll each ball in the extra breadcrumbs to coat them evenly. This will give a lovely crispy exterior when baked!
5. Bake the Balls:
Place your coated broccoli balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Give the tops a light spray with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them to help them get crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Cool and Serve:
After baking, remove the broccoli cheese balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. This will help them firm up. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or marinara. Enjoy!
These broccoli cheese balls are not only delicious but also a fun way to get your veggies in. Perfect for parties, snacks, or as a tasty side dish! 🥦🧀
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just make sure to thaw it completely, and drain any excess moisture before using it in the recipe. A quick microwave or overnight in the fridge will do the trick!
How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through for the best results.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the broccoli balls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just shape the balls, place them on your baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and pop them in the fridge. Bake when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Can I Substitute For Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just keep in mind that this might alter the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious!
