These broccoli cheese balls are a delicious, crunchy, and cheesy appetizer and snack! Packed with nutritious broccoli, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful seasoning, these little treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you make them for a party, as a fun appetizer, or as a kid-friendly snack, these golden delights are sure to be a favorite.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Broccoli Balls
- Crispy and Cheesy – The perfect combination of a crunchy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center.
- Nutritious and Delicious – Sneak in some veggies while still indulging in a satisfying treat.
- Easy to Make – Requires minimal ingredients and can be baked or fried.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for later.
- Versatile – Serve with a variety of dipping sauces or customize with different cheeses and seasonings.
Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Balls Recipe
To make a batch of these Cheesy Broccoli Balls, you’ll need:
- 2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil (for frying or baking)
How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- Preheat the Oven – If baking, preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Chop the Broccoli – Finely chop cooked broccoli to ensure an even mixture.
- Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Balls – Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls. If too sticky, add more breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Coat and Cook
Option 1: Baking
- Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Option 2: Frying
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Balls
These Cheesy Broccoli Balls pair well with many dipping sauces and side dishes:
- With Dipping Sauces – Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli.
- As a Party Appetizer – Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- With a Side Salad – Add to a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Side Dish – Pair with grilled chicken or fish.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Broccoli Balls
- Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli – If using frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture.
- Shred Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
- Chill the Mixture – If too soft to shape, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before rolling into balls.
- Make it Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Recipe Variations
Try these variations to mix things up:
- Mozzarella-Stuffed Cheesy Broccoli Balls – Add a mozzarella cube inside each ball for extra cheesiness.
- Spicy Jalapeño Broccoli Balls – Add finely chopped jalapeños.
- Bacon Broccoli Cheese Balls – Mix in crispy bacon bits.
- Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Balls – Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Freezing and Storage Cheesy Broccoli Balls
- To Freeze – Arrange uncooked balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen with a few extra minutes added.
- To Store – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Cheesy Broccoli Balls ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before using.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? Crushed crackers, oat flour, or almond flour work as great substitutes.
- Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes gives a crispy and golden result with less oil.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You Will Love
- Bacon Cheese Popper Balls
- Cheesy Onion Crisps Recipe
- Crispy Potato Balls: The Ultimate Crunchy Snack
These Cheesy Broccoli Balls are an irresistible addition to any appetizer spread or meal. Whether you bake or fry them, they’re packed with flavor and easy to make. Try them today and watch them disappear in minutes!
Cheesy Broccoli Balls Recipe
These broccoli cheese balls are a delicious, crunchy, and cheesy appetizer and snack! Packed with nutritious broccoli, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful seasoning, these little treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you make them for a party, as a fun appetizer, or as a kid-friendly snack, these golden delights are sure to be a favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs plus extra for coating
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for frying or baking
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture:
- Preheat the Oven (if baking): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Chop the Broccoli: Finely chop the cooked broccoli to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Shape the Balls: Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. If the mixture feels too sticky, add more breadcrumbs until it’s easier to handle.
Coat and Cook the Balls:
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in additional breadcrumbs to coat evenly. This will help create a crispy exterior.
- Bake or Fry:
- To Bake: Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- To Fry: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli – If using frozen, thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture.
- Shred Your Own Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
- Chill the Mixture – If too soft to shape, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before rolling into balls.
- Make it Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
