Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Cheesy: A perfect blend of melted cheese and crispy baked breadcrumbs.
Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried for a lighter option.
Great for Kids & Adults: A fun way to sneak in more veggies.
Easy & Quick: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a hassle-free recipe.

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 eggs, beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Olive oil spray

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil.
Steam the Broccoli:
- Steam or microwave the chopped broccoli until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
- Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix the steamed broccoli with cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
- Stir until well combined and the mixture holds together.
Form the Balls:
- Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Bake:
- Lightly spray the tops of the broccoli cheese balls with olive oil to enhance browning.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
- Serve warm with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or your favorite dip.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 180 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes until crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Thaw, drain, and pat dry before using to remove excess moisture.

How do I make them crispier?

Use panko breadcrumbs and spray the tops with olive oil before baking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, honey mustard, or garlic aioli pair perfectly.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes! Mix in finely chopped cooked chicken for extra protein.

Do I have to steam the broccoli?

Yes, steaming softens the broccoli and helps it blend well with the other ingredients.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, shallow fry them in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

What if my mixture is too wet?

Add more breadcrumbs gradually until the mixture holds together.

Can I make these without eggs?

Try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Conclusion

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthier, cheesy snack. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these crispy bites are sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy the perfect combination of cheese and veggies in every bite!