Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls – Crispy, Cheesy, and Loaded with Flavor!

If you love a crispy, cheesy snack that’s also packed with veggies, Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are about to become your new favorite! These little bites of deliciousness are made with tender broccoli, gooey melted cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning. They’re baked instead of fried, making them a lighter but equally satisfying option for snacking, appetizers, or even a side dish.

And the best part? They come together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Let’s get into this easy, cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Crispy outside, cheesy inside – The perfect balance of crunch and gooey cheese!
• Baked, not fried – A lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy to make – Just mix, roll, and bake—no frying mess!
• Great for meal prep – Make a batch and store them for quick snacks.
• Kid-friendly – A fun way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters.
• Customizable – Add different cheeses, seasonings, or even a little spice!

What Do Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Taste Like?

Imagine the best cheesy appetizer you’ve ever had—crispy on the outside, melty and savory on the inside, with a hint of roasted broccoli flavor. These are packed with cheese, giving them that perfect gooey texture, while garlic and breadcrumbs add a flavorful crunch. They taste just like classic comfort food but with a healthy twist!

Ingredients for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• 2 cups broccoli, finely chopped and steamed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko for extra crispiness)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing or spraying)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for an herby twist)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for extra freshness)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Food processor (optional, for finely chopping broccoli)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

1. Prepare the Broccoli

1. Steam or microwave the broccoli until tender.
2. Finely chop it using a knife or pulse it in a food processor for a finer texture.

2. Mix Everything Together

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and can hold their shape when pressed together.

3. Form the Balls

1. Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
2. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Lightly brush or spray with olive oil to help them crisp up.

4. Bake Until Golden & Crispy

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even crispiness.
3. Remove from the oven when they’re golden brown and slightly crispy.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

These are best served warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Try them with:

• Ranch dressing
• Marinara sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Honey mustard

What to Serve with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

These make a fantastic snack or side dish! Pair them with:

• Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine – A rich, garlicky pasta dish that’s full of flavor.
• Pesto Zucchini Noodles – A light and fresh low-carb meal to balance the cheesiness.
• Cottage Cheese Flatbread – A protein-packed, healthy bread option for dipping!

Tips for the Best Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Chop the broccoli finely – This helps the mixture hold together better.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Spray with olive oil before baking for a crispier exterior.
• Don’t overbake! Once they’re golden brown, they’re ready to go.
• Make ahead – You can form the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze unbaked balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
• Reheat: Warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes to keep them crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just thaw, drain, and pat dry before chopping.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Can I air-fry these instead of baking?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

What other cheeses can I use?

Mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack work great in this recipe!

Final Thoughts – Crispy, Cheesy & So Easy!

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect snack—crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them as an appetizer, side dish, or meal prep snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to pin it for later and share your creations on social media.

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Enjoy every bite! 🧀🥦💛