What are Broccoli Cheese Balls? If there’s one appetizer that disappears from my kitchen counter faster than I can remember, why? I can say “more cheese, please,” it’s these. They’re not just good, they’ve become addicted. I remember the first time I made them, it was for a last minute potluck and I was scrambling. I tossed them together thinking, “Well, it’s broccoli and cheese, how bad can it be? I didn’t know I was about to create a family legend. My kids, who usually eye anything green with suspicion, were practically fighting over the last one. Is it like a warm, cheesy hug in bite-sized package? What are some of the best fried cheese balls you get at restaurants? If you love jalapeo popper cheese balls, but want something a little more wholesome (and dare I say it) then this is the recipe for you. I say, even tastier! You’ve found your new obsession.
What are Broccoli cheese balls?
What exactly are these little spheres of deliciousness? Think of them as the ultimate comfort food, miniaturized and made totally irresistible. How do you make a baked potato with broccoli? Is it safe to bake a brownie with cheesy batter? The outside gets just the slightest bit of crispness, and when you bite into one, you get that crispiness. What are some of the best stretchy cheese pulls, the subtle freshness of broccoli, and a savory, satisfying finish? What are some of the best flavors out of this world? Is it a huge bonus to have fried cookies? What is the best chees It’s like a really sophisticated, grown-up Cheese Puff, but made with love and real ingredients. Why do I adore them?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, there are so many reasons why I think you’re going to fall head over heels for these broccoli Cheese Balls, just like my family has. First off, the flavor is just phenomenal. It’s that perfect balance of rich, savory cheese and the earthy goodness of broccoli, all wrapped up in a tender, flavorful bite. It’s not too heavy, but it’s incredibly satisfying, especially when you’re craving something comforting.
What I love about simple things is how easy they are to make. Even on a chaotic weeknight, I can whip these up without breaking any sweat. No complicated shaping, no frying, just mix and bake. What is a lifesaver when you need an appetizer for an unexpected guest or side dish?
What is cost-efficiency? What are some easy recipes for Broccoli and Cheese? Is it true that you can get so much deliciousness without a huge grocery bill? Plus, they’re so versatile! What are some good ways to serve them warm as an appetizer, alongside a salad for lunch, or even as snacks? They hold up well and are delicious at room temperature too, making them perfect for parties or parties. What is a packed What are some of the best songs that hit all the right notes? What’s not to love?
How do I make Broccoli cheese balls?
Quick Overview
How do you make broccoli cheese balls? How do you make a delicious broccoli muffin batter? What is the best way to make a ball of cheese filling, portion it into balls, and bake it until golden brown. The whole process is pretty hands-off once they’re in the oven, giving you time to do other things. Is it a foolproof method that guarantees you great results every single time, even if you’re new to programming? What are some of the best appetizer recipes? Trust me, you’ve got this!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
All-purpose FlourI usually use unbleached all-purpose flour for a good texture, but don’t stress too much if you only use one type of flour. Have the regular kind. All of it bakes up beautifully.
Baking Powder:How do you get that lovely light and tender texture, so make sure it’s fresh!
Salt:Just enough to enhance all the other flavors. 1 teaspoon.
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Freshly ground is always best for that little kick.
Large Eggs: 2. These act as a binder and add richness. I always make sure mine are at room temperature, it just seems to help everything blend better.
Milk:Whole milk makes them extra creamy, but I’ve tested this with 2% and even unsweetened almond milk. Is there any recipe for a wedding cake that turned out great? What you have, use what you can have!
Melted Butter:1/2 cup (1 stick) (Sticks) Is it safe to use unsalted or salted? Is salt in the recipe a bit?
For the Filling:
Finely Chopped Broccoli Florets2 cups. This is the star! Make sure they’re chopped really, really small – almost like little bits. Can you use fresh or frozen (just make sure to thaw and drain them really well)? I like to steam mine lightly before chopping, it makes them tender and easier to incorporate.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: What areSharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch, but feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack or Gruyere for a unique flavor. Extra gooey Pre-shredded is fine, but shredding your own from a block melts so much better and is usually more efficient.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: How 1/2 cup. This adds a salty, nutty depth that’s just divine.
For the Glaze (Optional, but highly recommended): For a glass of water,
Melted Butter: 1/4 cup. For brushing over the top right after they come out of the oven.
Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. A little hint of garlic is always a good idea.
Dried Parsley: 1 tablespoon. For a touch of color and subtle flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
What is the best way to get our oven ready? Preheat it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). While the oven is heating up, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. What is my favorite trick for easy cleanup? Make sure the parchment paper covers the entire surface of the baking sheet. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking sheet. Is there a lifesaver here?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside. Give it a good whisk until everything is thoroughly combined. What is the best way to leavening your baking powder? Your broccoli cheese balls will rise beautifully and have a consistent texture. What is the best way to get a clump of baking powder in your mouth?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs until they’re lightly beaten. Set aside. First, pour in the milk and the melted butter. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Make sure your melted butter isn’t too hot when you add it to the eggs. I don’t want to accidentally scramble them! A quick whisk and it’s perfect.
Step 4: Combine
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. With a spatula or wooden spoon, stir everything together until just combined. How do I not overmix here? Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, which can result in tougher broccoli cheese. A few streaks of flour are totally fine; they’ll disappear when you add the other ingredients. The batter will be thick, almost like a very thick pancake batter or soft dough.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Gently fold the finely chopped broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese into the batter. Use your spatula or spoon to incorporate them evenly. Again, mix just until everything is distributed. You want to see those beautiful green flecks of broccoli and generous amounts of cheese mixed throughout the batter. This is where all the magic happens!
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
What is the fun part? Drop rounded tablespoons of the batter onto your prepared baking sheet. I like to use a cookie scoop for uniform size, but two spoons work just as well. Aim to leave about 1-2 inches between each ball, as they will spread a little with baking. You can arrange them in neat rows or just place them wherever they fit. For a rustic look, you can gently press them down with the back of your hand. What is a spoon, but it’s not necessary? Is it true that they puff up on their own?
Step 7: Bake
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for about 18-22 minutes, or until the broccoli cheese balls are golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter). The exact baking time will depend on your oven and how large you made your balls, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time. You want them to be cooked through and delicious!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Once they’re done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. While the broccoli cheese balls are still warm, mix together the melted butter with the garlic powder and dried parsley. Lightly brush this savory glaze over the tops of the hot balls. This step is optional but it adds an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful sheen. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly more, or serve them warm right away.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
What are some good appetizers to serve warm, when the cheese is all melty and gooey inside? What are some good side dishes to serve with a side of marinara sauce? What is your favorite dipping sauce? If they’ve cooled a bit, they’re still incredibly delicious, and they make an excellent snack or snack. Addition to a lunchbox. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste!
What should I serve it with?
What are broccoli cheese balls? They are so versatile. For breakfast, they pair beautifully with a strong cup of coffee. Can you serve them with scrambled eggs or a simple fruit salad? What are some good ways to start the day with a good breakfast?
For a more elegant brunch, I love to arrange them on a pretty platter with some fresh herbs. They complement mimosas or a sparkling cider beautifully. You could also serve them as part of a larger brunch spread with quiches or mini muffins. They feel special without being fussy.
As a dessert? Absolutely! While they’re savory, they have that comforting, indulgent quality that works as an after-dinner treat, especially if you’re not a fan of super sweet desserts. Serve them with a light, fruit-based sauce for a nice contrast. Think of them as a savory cookie!
And of course, for cozy snacks, they’re absolutely unbeatable. They’re perfect for movie nights, game days, or just when you need a little pick-me-up. I often pack a few in my kids’ lunchboxes, and they’re always a huge hit. My personal favorite is to have them with a big, fresh salad for a light but incredibly satisfying dinner. They really are a culinary chameleon!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Broccoli Cheese Balls
I’ve made these broccoli cheese balls more times than I can count, and through the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that I think make a big difference. If you want yours to turn out absolutely perfect every single time, here are my top tips.
Zucchini Prep: Okay, wait, I made a mistake in my intro! I meant *broccoli*, not zucchini! My mind is clearly still on summer squash. For these broccoli cheese balls, the key is to get your broccoli finely chopped. I usually use a food processor for this, pulsing until it’s almost like a coarse meal. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure you thaw it completely and then squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Excess water is the enemy of crispy baked goods, so really press it dry with paper towels. For fresh broccoli, steaming it lightly until tender-crisp before chopping helps integrate it better and ensures it’s cooked through.
Mixing Advice: As I mentioned, don’t overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. You want to mix just until the flour streaks disappear. Overmixing develops the gluten, which can make your broccoli cheese balls dense and tough instead of light and tender. It’s better to have a few small lumps than to overwork the dough.
Swirl Customization: While these don’t have a defined swirl pattern like a cinnamon roll, you can play with the cheese distribution. If you want extra cheesy pockets, reserve a little bit of the shredded cheddar and fold it in at the very last second, giving it just a gentle stir. This way, you get some lovely pockets of melted cheese.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to get creative with the cheese! A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack is fantastic for meltiness and flavor. Smoked gouda or even a little bit of crumbled feta can add a unique twist. For the milk, as I said, any kind works, and you can even use a dairy-free milk if needed. The butter can be swapped for a good quality oil like olive oil or avocado oil, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Baking Tips: Make sure your oven is accurately preheated. An oven thermometer is a great investment if you’re not sure about yours. Position your baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven for even heat circulation. If your balls are browning too quickly on top before they’re cooked through, you can loosely tent them with foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. To test for doneness, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs.
Glaze Variations: The butter and garlic glaze is simple perfection, but you can elevate it. Add a pinch of onion powder, a tiny bit of cayenne pepper for a kick, or even some chopped fresh chives right before brushing. If you don’t want a glaze at all, a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese over the top before baking also works beautifully.
Storing and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about these broccoli cheese balls is how well they store and reheat. If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you’ll be happy to know they’re still delicious the next day.
Room Temperature: If they’ve cooled down completely after baking, you can leave them on a plate or in a container at room temperature for a few hours. They’re still quite tasty this way, which makes them perfect for parties or picnics where you don’t have access to heating.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, pop them into an airtight container or wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil. They’ll stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I usually find they are best eaten within the first two days, but they’re still perfectly good after that.
Freezer Instructions: Yes, you can freeze these! Once they’ve completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, just place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at around 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store or freeze them, I recommend holding off on the optional butter glaze until just before you serve them, especially if you plan to reheat them in the oven. The glaze is best applied when they’re warm right out of the oven. If you refrigerate them with the glaze, it might get a little soft, but they’ll still taste great. For best results when reheating, brush with the glaze after they’ve been warmed up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
There you have it – my absolute favorite way to make broccoli cheese balls! I truly believe this recipe captures that perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness with a hint of healthy goodness from the broccoli. They’re so easy to whip up, always a crowd-pleaser, and just incredibly satisfying. They’ve become a staple in my kitchen, whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or just a craving for something wonderfully comforting. If you’re a fan of savory baked treats and love the classic combo of broccoli and cheese, you absolutely have to give these a try. I promise you won’t regret it! I’d love to hear how yours turn out, and if you discover any amazing variations, please share them in the comments below! Happy baking, friends!
Broccoli Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 head Broccoli chopped into florets
- 1.5 cup Cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Butter melted
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam or boil broccoli florets until tender.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place balls on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
