Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls bring together the vibrant, earthy flavors of steamed broccoli with the indulgent richness of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, resulting in a dish that is not only mouthwatering but also visually appealing. These little bites of goodness are golden brown on the outside with a tender, cheesy interior that bursts with flavor. Whether you’re preparing these for a family dinner or as an appetizer for a party, they promise to impress and satisfy. This recipe is perfect for busy parents looking for something quick and easy to prepare while also ensuring their family is getting essential nutrients. With a simple step-by-step approach, you’ll find yourself making these delights time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is not only easy to whip up, but it also strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and nutritional wellness. With just a handful of common ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special without consuming hours in the kitchen. These bites are family-friendly, appealing to both adults and children alike, as they combine the familiarity of cheese with the not-so-subtle green goodness of broccoli. Moreover, the baking process keeps them lighter than traditional frying, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To create these delightful Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, you will need:
2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped: Freshly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green color and a mild earthiness that complements the cheese beautifully.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This cheese contributes a bold, sharp flavor that melts perfectly.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty depth, elevating the overall taste of the balls.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: These add a crunchy texture to the outside of the cheese balls, providing a satisfying bite.
1/4 cup egg, beaten: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A dash of garlic powder enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder: This adds a hint of sweetness and savory depth.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together deliciously.
Step-by-Step Directions for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
To get started with your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls, first, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, combine your chopped steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, the beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully incorporated. It’s important to ensure that the broccoli gets evenly distributed among the cheesy mixture.
Next, using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and form them into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for even cooking.
Bake them in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once done, serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Tips & Tricks
To take your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls to the next level, consider these chef’s secrets. For an extra crispy exterior, you might choose to briefly broil the balls at the end of the baking time. Just keep a close eye on them, as they can brown quickly!
You could also play with the flavor profile: try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some finely chopped herbs like parsley or dill for freshness.
If you prefer a lower-fat version, substitute part of the cheese with a low-fat alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls make an excellent starter or side dish and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces. A tangy yogurt-based dip or a classic marinara sauce would enhance the experience beautifully. For a more complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese.
Consider also presenting them on a colorful platter with fresh herbs scattered around for a visually striking dish. They are perfect for gatherings and parties; provide toothpicks for easy snacking!
Nutritional Information
While these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious indulgence, they also come with nutritional benefits. Each serving is packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the cheese and broccoli.
Typically, a serving size contains approximately 150 calories, with a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They provide essential vitamins and minerals from the broccoli, making them a wholesome choice for a snack or side dish.
Storing Tips & Variations for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Storing your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is easy—simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy them within 3-4 days. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, feel free to freeze the uncooked balls. Just arrange them on a baking sheet until frozen and transfer them to a zip-top bag.
When you want to cook them from frozen, there’s no need to thaw—simply bake them as usual, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
For variations, consider adding other vegetables such as finely grated carrots or zucchini to the mix, or switch out the cheeses for ones you prefer.
Conclusion for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Don’t wait any longer—try making Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls today. They’re not just delicious; they’re a fun and nutritious addition to any meal or snack time. Your taste buds will thank you, and your kitchen will be filled with inviting aromas that will have everyone gathering around to snack on these delightful bites!
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just make sure to properly thaw and drain it before chopping.How can I make these cheese balls dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and consider an egg replacement with a flax or chia seed mixture.What’s the best way to reheat leftover cheese balls?
To retain their crispiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.Can I bake them ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake them earlier and reheat them just before serving.What dipping sauces pair well with these cheese balls?
Creamy ranch, tangy marinara, or a spicy sriracha aioli are all great choices to complement these cheesy bites.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls combining steamed broccoli and rich cheeses for a healthy and indulgent snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine chopped steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Mix everything together until fully incorporated.
- Form small portions into balls about 1-2 inches in diameter and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For an extra crispy exterior, consider broiling the balls briefly at the end of baking. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or finely chopped herbs for freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
