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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: A Deliciously Healthy Snack or Side Dish
If you’re looking for a fun, nutritious, and incredibly delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, look no further than Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls! These bite-sized delights are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and veggie-packed goodness. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, baking them instead of frying means you can enjoy all the flavor with less guilt!
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, and they’re so easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped into small pieces)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (you can also use a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your broccoli cheese balls are ready to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli, cut it into small florets and steam or blanch it for about 4-5 minutes until tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, simply thaw it and then chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure to drain any excess water and pat the broccoli dry with a paper towel to avoid sogginess in your cheese balls.
Once your broccoli is prepared, place it in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Mixture
To the broccoli, add the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. You should have a sticky but manageable mixture. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to get the right consistency.
Step 4: Form the Balls
Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into 1- to 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will prevent the cheese balls from sticking and make cleanup easier. Make sure to leave a little space between each ball for even baking.
Step 5: Bake
Spray the tops of the broccoli cheese balls lightly with olive oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven. Then, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can flip them halfway through for even crispness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the broccoli cheese balls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them warm with a side of dipping sauce—whether it’s a classic ranch, a tangy marinara, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They’re also delicious on their own!
Why You’ll Love Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with broccoli, these cheese balls provide a great source of vitamins and fiber while still being incredibly satisfying. Baking instead of frying keeps them light, making them a much healthier option compared to traditional fried snacks.
- Perfect for All Ages: Whether you’re serving them as a snack for your kids, an appetizer at a party, or a side dish with dinner, these broccoli cheese balls are loved by both children and adults. They’re a sneaky way to get more vegetables into picky eaters’ diets without them even realizing it!
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- Versatile: You can easily customize these broccoli cheese balls to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese (such as mozzarella or gouda), add some herbs (like parsley or thyme), or even spice things up with a little chili powder or cayenne pepper.
