These golden, crunchy Broccoli Cheese Balls deliver an irresistible contrast of textures — crispy exterior giving way to a molten, cheese-filled center.
Author:Emma Collins
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped into small pieces
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the cooked broccoli in a large mixing bowl and chop it into smaller pieces if needed.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using) to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
Using your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball about 1½ inches in diameter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the balls turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Remove from the oven and let the broccoli cheese balls cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Dry your broccoli thoroughly after cooking.
Let shredded cheese come to room temperature before mixing.
Use a cookie scoop for consistently sized balls.
Refrigerate the formed balls for 15-20 minutes before baking.
Roll formed balls in extra panko breadcrumbs for ultimate crispiness.