Description
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a perfect healthy snack or appetizer! Packed with fresh broccoli, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan, these crispy, golden balls are baked to perfection. They’re a great way to sneak in some veggies and are perfect for dipping in ranch or marinara sauce. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped (or frozen, thawed & drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch fresh broccoli florets for about 2 minutes, then finely chop. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it is thawed and well-drained before chopping.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into small balls. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- You can use frozen broccoli, but make sure it’s fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Customize with additional herbs or spices if desired, like crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- These broccoli cheese balls freeze well—just freeze before baking and bake them directly from frozen
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 broccoli cheese ball
- Calories: 60-70 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150-200 mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg