These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender inside, and packed with broccoli flavor! They make a delicious appetizer, snack, lunch, or side dish — plus they’re kid-friendly and easy to make ahead.
🕒 Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 18–20 balls
- Difficulty: Easy
🛒 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Baking
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
🔪 Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Food processor or knife
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Oven
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
- Steam or boil broccoli for 3–4 minutes until tender.
- Drain very well.
Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Chop the Broccoli
- Finely chop broccoli using a knife or food processor.
Do not puree completely — small texture pieces work best.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl combine:
- Chopped broccoli
- Cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Garlic
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Mix until fully combined.
Step 5: Shape the Balls
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture.
- Roll into balls using your hands.
- Place on prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake
- Lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Flip halfway through for even browning.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Sour cream
- Spicy mayo
- Honey mustard
💡 Tips for Best Results
Remove Excess Moisture
Dry broccoli thoroughly to help the balls hold together.
Don’t Overprocess
Small broccoli pieces create better texture.
Chill the Mixture
If mixture feels soft, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before rolling.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Fresh cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
🔄 Variations
Low Carb/Keto
Replace breadcrumbs with:
- Almond flour
- Crushed pork rinds
Spicy Version
Add:
- Jalapeños
- Chili flakes
- Pepper jack cheese
Extra Veggies
Mix in:
- Cauliflower
- Spinach
- Zucchini
Air Fryer Method
Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
🥶 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze baked balls for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: 350°F for 8–10 minutes
- Air fryer: 3–5 minutes for extra crispiness
❓ FAQs
Why are my broccoli balls falling apart?
Too much moisture or not enough binder can cause this.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain very well first.
Can I fry them instead?
Absolutely — shallow fry until golden.
Are they vegetarian?
Yes, if using vegetarian Parmesan cheese.
⚖️ Approximate Nutrition (Per 3 Balls)
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
✅ WW Points (Estimated)
- 3–4 Points per serving
🌟 Optional Add-Ons
Try adding:
- Bacon bits
- Mozzarella cheese
- Green onions
- Hot sauce
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh dill