Imagine golden-brown, bite-sized spheres with a crisp exterior and a warm, cheesy, tender interior — that’s the magic of these Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. They’re a wonderful way to turn simple broccoli into something truly irresistible, with melted cheddar and Parmesan holding everything together in a comforting, savory bite. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these broccoli cheese balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — even for people who usually aren’t big fans of vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside — golden and crunchy with a soft, melty center
- Vegetables made delicious — broccoli shines when paired with rich cheese
- Baked, not fried — lighter, but still full of flavor and texture
- Kid-friendly & party-ready — ideal finger food for gatherings
- Easy and customizable — simple ingredients, flexible flavors
- Perfect for dipping — delicious with marinara, ranch, or yogurt dips
Ingredients
(Makes about 16–20 balls)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (fresh or steamed and well-drained)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp recommended)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crispiness)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray or a light brush of oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400 °F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the broccoli
Steam the broccoli until just tender (about 3–5 minutes). Drain very well and finely chop. Remove as much moisture as possible to ensure crisp balls.
3. Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Shape the balls
Scoop about 1–1½ tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls. Place them on the baking sheet with a little space between each.
5. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and crispy. For extra crunch, lightly spray or brush with olive oil halfway through baking.
6. Cool slightly & serve
Let cool for a few minutes before serving so they firm up. Serve warm.
You Must Know (Helpful Tips)
- Squeeze excess moisture from broccoli to prevent soggy balls
- Freshly grated cheese melts better than packaged shredded cheese
- Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest texture
- Don’t over-bake — they should be golden, not dry
- Best served warm for optimal texture
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Bake at 180 °C (355 °F) for about 10 minutes to restore crispness
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked balls and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes
Variations & Substitutions
- Cheese swaps: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or mixed cheese blends
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour
- Extra flavor: Add chopped herbs, chili flakes, or paprika
- Air fryer: Cook at 190 °C (375 °F) for 10–15 minutes, turning once
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with marinara, garlic yogurt, or ranch dip
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Add to a party platter with other finger foods
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meat or fish
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can form the balls ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them before baking.
Why aren’t my broccoli balls crispy?
Most likely due to excess moisture in the broccoli or too little oil.
Can kids enjoy this recipe?
Absolutely — reduce seasoning slightly for a milder taste.
Are these healthier than fried versions?
Yes, baking significantly reduces oil while keeping great flavor.