How To Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

 

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Crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful inside — these baked broccoli cheese balls are the ultimate healthy snack or party appetizer!

Why You’ll Love These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Looking for a guilt-free, veggie-packed snack that everyone will love? Whether you’re trying to sneak more greens into your kids’ diet or need a quick finger food for game day, these broccoli cheese balls check all the boxes. They’re baked, not fried, which means less mess and fewer calories — but still packed with cheesy goodness and plenty of flavor.

Plus, they’re super easy to make ahead and freeze, making them perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You probably have most of these in your kitchen already:

• 2 cups chopped steamed broccoli

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use whole wheat or panko)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Cooking spray or olive oil

Optional add-ins: red chili flakes, diced green onions, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor!

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Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Steam and Chop the Broccoli

First, steam your broccoli until tender but not mushy — about 5-6 minutes. Once cool, finely chop it. The finer you chop, the better the balls hold together.

2. Mix All Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheeses, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Mix until everything is evenly combined. It should be sticky enough to hold its shape.

3. Form Into Balls

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake to Perfection

Lightly spray the balls with olive oil or cooking spray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.

5. Serve Hot and Enjoy!

These are best served warm with your favorite dipping sauce — think marinara, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

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Tips To Make Them Even Better

• Make ahead: You can freeze these before or after baking! Just reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.

• Go gluten-free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• Sneak in more veggies: Add in finely chopped spinach or cauliflower.

Serving Suggestions

Baked broccoli cheese balls are versatile! Serve them:

• As a healthy school lunch or afternoon snack

• With a side salad for a light dinner

• As an appetizer at your next party

• In a lunchbox with hummus and fruit

Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheese Balls

Not only are they crunchy and cheesy, but they’re also:

• High in fiber

• Rich in calcium and protein (thanks to the cheese)

• Packed with antioxidants from broccoli

These tasty bites are a great way to satisfy cravings without overloading on carbs or fried foods.

Final Thoughts

If you're on a mission to eat healthier without giving up comfort food, baked broccoli cheese balls are your new best friend. Easy to customize, quick to bake, and endlessly crowd-pleasing — this recipe is a staple you’ll come back to again and again.

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