Why are people so obsessed with mac and cheese? What is cooler, healthier, and way more fun?Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls – 1Seriously, these little guys are like a party in your mouth, and they’re surprisingly easy to whip up. I’m talking cheesy, savory, and just a little bit addictive – my kids practically inhale them. I remember when I first tried making these, I was looking for a way to sneak more veggies into my diet. What are some of the best picky eaters diets? Think of them as the sophisticated, veggie-packed version of a cheese puff – but way better. What are some of the best recipes that you’ve ever tried?Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: What are, you’ll be hooked!
What is Broccoli Cheese Balls?
What are these little cheesy wonders?Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls – 2 are essentially bite-sized balls of happiness made with tender broccoli florets, a blend of melted cheeses, breadcrumbs to bind it all together, and baked to golden perfection. Think of it as a supercharged broccoli and Cheese Casserole, but in a portable, poppable form. They’re not fried, which is a huge bonus, making them a healthier alternative to some other cheesy snacks out there. I actually came up with the name because my son described them as “broccoli planets”! It’s essentially the ultimate comfort food reimagined as a fun, veggie-loaded snack that both kids and adults will adore. It’s really that simple!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Where do I start? There are so many reasons why I’m head-over-heels for these things.Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls.! First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. You get the earthy goodness of the broccoli perfectly balanced with the salty, creamy, cheesy goodness, and that slight crispy exterior just sends it over the top. What I love most about this is how deceptively easy they are to make. Seriously, you’re looking at maybe 30 minutes of prep time, tops, and then the oven does all the work. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and that the whole family will actually eat!
Let’s not forget about the cost, either. The ingredients are super budget-friendly – broccoli is usually pretty affordable, and you can use whatever cheese you have on hand. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Serve them as an appetizer at your next party, pack them in your kids’ lunchboxes (they’re great cold!), or just keep them in the fridge for a quick and healthy snack. Honestly, they’re even better than my classic Cheddar Biscuits – dare I say it! I tested this once using a sharp cheddar, and it kicked them up a notch! These are a win-win all around. So trust me, you need these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. in your life!
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Quick Overview
Making these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. Serves is honestly easier than you think! You’ll start by lightly steaming your broccoli, then mixing it with a simple batter of cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg. Roll them into balls, bake until golden, and you’re done! The best part? You can even prep them ahead of time and bake them right before serving. It’s my secret weapon for easy entertaining, and I’m pretty sure it’ll become yours too!
Ingredients
For the Broccoli Base: For a fresh
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups): Fresh is best for that vibrant green color and slightly sweet taste. You can use frozen in a pinch, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water!
• 1 large egg: This helps bind everything together, so don’t skip it!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the broccoli perfectly. Can you use the pre-grated stuff, but freshly grated is always better.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that classic cheesy goodness. I like to use sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor, but mild works just as well.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps absorb excess moisture and gives the balls a nice texture. I usually use panko for extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs are fine too.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For drizzling over the broccoli before baking. It helps it get nice and tender.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory flavor. You can also use fresh minced garlic if you prefer.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! What is the best way to bring out the flavor of broccoli and cheese?
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the Baked Broccoli Cheese BallsI always forget this step and end up scrubbing for ages!
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Now, lightly steam the broccoli florets until they’re tender-crisp. You want them to be cooked through but still have a little bite. How do I steam a potato for about 5 minutes? What are some good ways to cook broccoli cheese balls?
Step 3: Chop the Broccoli
Once the broccoli is steamed, let it cool slightly, then chop it into small pieces. You don’t want big chunks of broccoli in your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls., so make sure they’re finely chopped. I use a food processor for this, it saves so much time, but chopping by hand works just fine.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, egg, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and salt. Set aside. Olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
Step 5: Form into Balls
What is the fun part? Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart. I use a small cookie scoop to make sure they’re all the same size.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls.Are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. Is this where you might see some browning or burning depending on your oven’s quirkiness? When they look perfect, they’re perfect!
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. 2 cupsIs it good to serve these warm or at room temperature? My kids love dipping in ranch dressing!
What should I serve it with?
These little Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. Is are so versatile! They’re fantastic on their own as a snack or appetizer, but they also pair well with a variety of dishes.
As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside Grilled Chicken, baked salmon, or a simple pasta dish. They add a pop of flavor and a dose of veggies to any meal.
As an Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. They’re always a hit at parties!
In a Salad: Crumble them over a green salad for added flavor and texture. They’re especially delicious with a vinaigrette dressing.
For Snacking: Pack them in your kids’ lunchboxes or keep them in the fridge for a quick and healthy snack. They’re great for satisfying those afternoon cravings.
My favorite way to serve them is with a big bowl of tomato soup on a cold day. It’s the ultimate comfort food combination! I always make a big batch and store them in the fridge for easy snacking throughout the week.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Okay, so I’ve made these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to make them absolutely perfect every single time.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: This is crucial! You want the broccoli to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked broccoli will make the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls soggy.
Chop the Broccoli Finely: This will ensure that the balls hold together well and that you don’t have any big, awkward chunks of broccoli.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment with Cheese: I usually use a combination of Parmesan and cheddar, but you can use any cheese you like! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of blue cheese would be delicious. I found that using a smoked gouda created a great flavor when I tested that version!
Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. It’ll give the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls a nice kick.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, which will give the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls a better texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: This will prevent the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls from browning properly. Make sure to space them evenly apart on the baking sheet.
Bake Until Golden Brown: This is when you know they’re done! The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls should be golden brown on the outside.
These are all the tips I’ve learned after countless batches, trust me, it makes a difference!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are great for meal prepping because they store really well!
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving them at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They’ll still be delicious, but they might lose a little bit of their crispiness.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze them! Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them for up to 2-3 months. This will prevent them from sticking together.
Reheating: To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they might get a little bit soggy. If you’re reheating them from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time. I usually just pop them in the Air Fryer for a few minutes, and they come out perfectly crispy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls! These little cheesy delights are not only incredibly delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet. Seriously, they’re so good that even the pickiest eaters will love them. And the best part? They’re super easy to make and perfect for meal prepping. If you’re looking for a fun, healthy, and satisfying snack or appetizer, then look no further. And if you loved these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, then you absolutely *have* to try my Cheesy Cauliflower bites! I’m convinced they’ll be your new favorite. Happy baking, friends! And please, leave a comment below letting me know how yours turned out – I’m always so excited to hear about your own creations!
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup bread crumbs
- 1 large egg beaten
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked broccoli, cheese, bread crumbs, egg, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to combine.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
