Broccoli Cheese Balls Snack

These crispy, cheesy broccoli balls transform the humble vegetable into an irresistible snack that even the pickiest eaters will devour. The combination of melty cheddar and tender broccoli creates perfect bite-sized morsels that disappear quickly at any gathering.

I first made these broccoli cheese balls when looking for creative ways to use up extra broccoli from my garden. What started as a kitchen experiment has become our family's favorite movie night snack, requested even more often than popcorn.

Ingredients

• Broccoli: Fresh is best, but frozen works too. The star vegetable adds nutrition while providing the perfect texture base.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp varieties offer the most flavor. Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko creates the crispiest exterior. Regular breadcrumbs work but with a denser result.
• Eggs: They bind everything together. Use large eggs for proper moisture balance.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps with browning. Use good quality for best flavor.
• Garlic powder: Provides aromatic depth without the texture of fresh garlic.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle savory notes throughout the balls.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors together. Season generously.
• Parmesan cheese: Optional but recommended for an extra dimension of cheesy goodness.
• Fresh parsley: Adds bright color and fresh flavor to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Broccoli:

Steam or boil broccoli florets for 5-7 minutes until tender but not mushy. This initial cooking ensures the broccoli will be perfectly done in the final product. After draining, let it cool completely before chopping to prevent the cheese from melting prematurely.

Chop the Broccoli:

Cut cooled broccoli into very small pieces, about 1/4 inch in size. Consistency matters here. Pieces that are too large will make the balls difficult to form and hold together.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Whisk eggs thoroughly with olive oil and seasonings in a large bowl. This creates a uniform base that will distribute flavors evenly throughout the mixture.

Add Broccoli and Cheese:

Fold in chopped broccoli, both cheeses, and breadcrumbs gently but thoroughly. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold shape but not overly wet. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time.

Shape the Balls:

With slightly dampened hands to prevent sticking, roll tablespoon-sized portions of mixture into balls. Press firmly while rolling to ensure they hold together. Uniform size ensures even cooking.

Bake the Cheese Balls:

Arrange balls with at least 1 inch between them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning.

Garnish and Serve:

Allow to cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the balls set and prevents burnt mouths from molten cheese centers.

Pin it

The broccoli stems are actually my favorite part to include in this recipe. While many people discard them, they add a wonderful sweetness and texture when finely chopped. My grandmother always told me the stems contained just as many nutrients as the florets, and incorporating them reduces food waste tremendously.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These broccoli cheese balls are perfect for meal prep. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it makes them soggy rather than crisp.

Freezing Instructions

The unbaked mixture can be formed into balls, placed on a baking sheet, and frozen solid before transferring to freezer bags. Store frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, baked cheese balls can be frozen after cooling completely. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Dipping Sauce Suggestions

These broccoli cheese balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Try a simple sriracha mayo by mixing 1/4 cup mayonnaise with 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce. Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or honey mustard also make excellent companions. For a tangy option, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of salt.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the balls are crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden. Tossing the mixture lightly ensures air pockets for added crispiness.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze for longer storage. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What dipping sauces go well with these?

These pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic aioli for added flavor and variety.

→ Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?

Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs can replace panko, and dairy-free cheese can substitute the cheddar for vegan options. Adjust seasoning as needed.

→ What are some serving suggestions for these balls?

Serve them as an appetizer, side snack, or part of a party platter. They’re ideal with salads or as finger food for gatherings.