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Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls

These baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a healthy, bite-sized appetizer combining fresh broccoli and cheesy goodness in a golden, crispy shell—perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or a quick, veggie-packed treat!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Chill Time 10 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 18 balls
Calories 55 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups broccoli florets finely chopped (about 1 large head)
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded (about 6 oz)
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated, optional
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 0.25 cup green onions thinly sliced
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil or cooking spray.
  • Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
  • Finely chop the cooled broccoli by hand or pulse in a food processor for 5–6 quick pulses for even pieces.
  • In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, beaten eggs, sliced green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir until evenly distributed.
  • Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 10–15 minutes to firm up and make shaping easier.
  • Scoop heaping tablespoons of the chilled mixture and roll into 1½-inch balls, then gently press each into extra panko breadcrumbs for a crisp shell.
  • Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart; lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil.
  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning once halfway, until the tops are golden brown and you hear a slight crunch when tapped.
  • Let the Broccoli Cheese Balls rest for 5 minutes before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Store leftover balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 55kcal
Keyword Baked Appetizer, Broccoli Cheese Balls, Cheesy Broccoli Bites, Healthy Party Food, Veggie Snack
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