Description
Delicious and cheesy Broccoli Cheese Balls make for a perfect appetizer or snack, combining steamed broccoli with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, coated in crispy breadcrumbs. You can fry them for a golden crust or bake for a healthier option. These bite-sized treats are great for parties or a tasty vegetarian snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli Cheese Balls
- 2 cups finely chopped steamed broccoli (well-drained)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (or use baking option)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is well combined and cohesive.
- Form Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all mixture is used. If the mixture is too soft, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each broccoli cheese ball in additional plain breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer coating.
- Frying Option: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the balls in batches for 2–3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Baking Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray them with cooking spray, and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and firm.
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli for a flavorful bite.
Notes
- Serve warm with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli for enhanced flavor.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- These broccoli cheese balls freeze well; reheat in oven or air fryer when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
