Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Your New Favorite Veggie Delight

Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Your New Favorite Veggie Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups roughly chopped soft cooked broccoli (well drained) (~400g/13 oz raw broccoli (Note 1)); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 eggs; ¾ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby or Tasty cheese are my usual); 2 shallots / scallions (finely sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ tsp salt; Black pepper; Olive oil spray; 2/3 cup plain yoghurt; 1/2 lemon (Zest of); 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ garlic clove (minced); 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (adjust to taste, depends on fat % of yoghurt used); Salt and pepper (to taste)

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Are you ready for a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and secretly healthy treat? Look no further than these incredible Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls! This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing delight.

Broccoli is not only delicious but also offers a range of important nutrients, as highlighted by Healthline’s research on the numerous health benefits of broccoli.

Perfect as a satisfying meat-free meal, a fun appetizer, or a healthy snack, these cheesy broccoli spheres will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Close-up of crispy baked broccoli cheese bites on parchment paper.

These delightful Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. They offer so many reasons to love them:

Perfectly Satisfying: They make a wonderful meat-free meal that’s both filling and flavorful.
Kid-Friendly Veggies: A brilliant way to get picky eaters to enjoy their greens without a fuss.
Irresistible Texture: Expect a wonderfully crispy exterior that gives way to a moist, cheesy interior.
Simple & Quick: Made with everyday ingredients, the prep is straightforward and won’t take up your entire afternoon.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for casual weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or a wholesome snack.
Freezer-Friendly: You can easily make a big batch and freeze them for convenient future meals or snacks.

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these amazing cheesy broccoli bites. You’ll find most of these staples already in your kitchen!

For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:

2 cups (packed) roughly chopped soft cooked broccoli (well drained) (~400g/13 oz raw broccoli)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
¾ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese are my usual)
2 shallots / scallions, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp salt
Black pepper, to taste
Olive oil spray

For the Garlic Lemon Yoghurt Sauce:

2/3 cup plain yoghurt
Zest of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ garlic clove, minced
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (adjust to taste, depends on fat % of yoghurt used)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Notes & Substitutions

You have flexibility with a few ingredients when making these baked broccoli cheese balls.

Broccoli: Feel free to use fresh or frozen broccoli. If using fresh, make sure your florets and tender stems are cooked until very soft. Ensuring vegetables are cooked to the proper internal temperature is crucial for both texture and food safety, as detailed in the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services guidelines. The key is to drain the cooked broccoli thoroughly to prevent soggy balls. Excess moisture can make them crumble.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for the best crispy texture. Standard breadcrumbs will work but may result in a slightly denser ball.
Cheese Options: Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese melt beautifully and provide a lovely flavor. You can also experiment with other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or a mild mozzarella.
Gluten-Free: To make these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with an equal amount of almond meal or your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Equipment

You won’t need any fancy gadgets to whip up a batch of these delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls.

Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients easily.
Baking sheet: To roast your broccoli cheese balls evenly.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for preparing your fresh ingredients.

Instructions

Golden baked broccoli cheese balls served in a rustic bowl with dipping sauce.

Creating these delightful Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is straightforward and fun! Follow these step-by-step directions for perfect results every time.

Prepare Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C / 390°F. This temperature works for all oven types, ensuring your balls cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking tray with baking or parchment paper. This simple step prevents the cheesy broccoli spheres from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the broccoli cheese balls (except for the olive oil spray). This includes the well-drained, soft cooked broccoli, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheese, sliced shallots or scallions, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything together thoroughly, making sure to mash up the broccoli as you go. You want a well-combined mixture, similar in texture to well-mixed mince.
Form Balls: Scoop up a heaped tablespoon of the mixture. Press it firmly together in your hand to ensure it holds its shape. Then, roll it gently between your palms to form a uniform ball, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Place each ball onto the prepared baking tray. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture; you should get about 15–18 delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls.
Arrange and Bake: Once all the balls are formed and placed on the tray, lightly spray them with olive oil. This helps them achieve that desired crispy, golden-brown exterior. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the surface of the balls is slightly crisp and beautifully golden.
Make the Sauce: While the broccoli cheese balls are baking, prepare your zesty Garlic Lemon Yoghurt Sauce. In a small bowl, combine the plain yoghurt, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well. Set the sauce aside for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. This simple sauce perfectly complements the rich flavor of the baked broccoli cheese balls.
Serve: Serve your hot and crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls immediately with the prepared Garlic Lemon Yoghurt Sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a simple dollop of ketchup if that’s what you prefer!

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls is easy with a few simple tricks.

Broccoli Moisture: The most crucial step is to ensure your cooked broccoli is very well drained. Squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Too much moisture will lead to soft, crumbly balls that struggle to hold their shape.
Firm Balls: When forming the balls, press the mixture together very firmly. A well-compacted ball is less likely to fall apart during baking, ensuring a delightful texture.
Even Baking: Avoid overcrowding your baking sheet. Give each broccoli and cheese bite some space to allow air to circulate, promoting even cooking and crispness on all sides.
Golden Crust: Don’t skip the olive oil spray! A light coating of oil helps these cheesy broccoli spheres achieve that desirable golden-brown, slightly crisp exterior.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste a tiny bit of the raw mixture (before adding eggs if you’re concerned) and adjust salt and pepper if needed. This ensures your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are perfectly seasoned.
Troubleshooting: If your mixture feels too soft and won’t form firm balls, try adding another tablespoon or two of panko breadcrumbs until the consistency is just right.

Serving, Storage & Variations

These versatile Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are delicious served in many ways and are easy to store.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy them as a light main course paired with a simple rice pilaf or some sautéed green beans. They also make fantastic appetizers for any gathering, especially with the tangy Garlic Lemon Yoghurt Sauce.
Storage Instructions: Store any leftover Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat them in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. A microwave will work, but they might lose some crispness.
Freezing: You can easily freeze cooked broccoli cheese balls! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
Variations:
- Herbs & Spices: Add a pinch of dried Italian herbs, smoked paprika, or a touch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Other Vegetables: Experiment with finely grated carrots, zucchini (well-squeezed to remove moisture), or even cauliflower florets.
- Cheese Blends: Try a sharp Parmesan, a nutty Gruyère, or a spicy Pepper Jack for a different cheesy twist.
- Dipping Sauces: Besides the lemon yoghurt sauce, try marinara sauce, sriracha mayo, or a creamy ranch dressing.
- These delicious broccoli cheese balls can also make a great wholesome snack throughout the day.

Nutrition Information

Enjoy these delicious Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls knowing they offer a wholesome boost of vegetables and flavor. They make a balanced meal option.

Component	Amount
Serving Size	262 g
Calories	374 kcal

These broccoli cheese balls are packed with fiber from the broccoli and provide protein from the eggs and cheese. Using almond meal for a gluten-free version may slightly alter the calorie count and fat content, generally increasing both.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water before mixing to prevent soggy balls.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or an equal amount of almond meal. The taste and texture will still be fantastic.

Can I freeze these broccoli cheese balls?

Yes, you can! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze them on a tray before transferring them to an airtight bag for up to 2-3 months.

Can I air fry these instead of baking?

Yes, you can air fry them! Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Conclusion

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are truly a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. They’re deliciously crispy, cheesy, and a fantastic way to enjoy your veggies without any fuss. Whether you serve them as a satisfying meal, a fun appetizer for your next gathering, or a healthy snack, they are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.

Give this easy recipe a try tonight and discover your new favorite way to enjoy broccoli! Don’t forget to share your amazing creations with us and leave a comment below!