If you’re searching for a snack that’s equal parts comforting, fresh, and totally irresistible, let me introduce you to Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. This recipe takes broccoli and transforms it into golden, crispy bites with gooey, cheesy centers that everyone will fight over. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a kid-friendly veggie dish, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, these little gems deliver big flavor and satisfying texture—all baked, never fried.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a starring role in making these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls shine. From the sharpness of cheddar to the crunch of panko, every element creates layers of taste and texture you’ll crave again and again.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Finely chopped for a tender, vibrant base with plenty of color and a mild, earthy flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and gives the balls their signature gooey, cheesy center.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that perfectly complements the cheddar.
- Panko breadcrumbs (divided): Half gets mixed in for structure, while the rest coats the outside for irresistible crunch.
- Large eggs: Help bind everything together so the balls hold their shape while baking.
- Minced garlic: Brings a fragrant, savory depth—don’t skip it!
- Salt: Just enough to make all the flavors pop.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the taste.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat—add more or less to taste.
- Onion powder: Boosts the savory factor without overpowering the veggies.
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil: Ensures the balls bake up golden and crisp without sticking.
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup easy and prevent sticking. Give the parchment a light mist of nonstick spray or a quick brush of olive oil for extra insurance that your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls will release perfectly golden every time.
Step 2: Steam and Dry the Broccoli
Finely chop your broccoli florets and steam or microwave them for just 2–3 minutes, until they’re tender and bright green. Let the broccoli cool slightly, then use a paper towel to pat it dry, soaking up as much moisture as possible. This step is key: dry broccoli means your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls will be crisp, not soggy.
Step 3: Mix Up the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the steamed, dried broccoli with the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and onion powder. Stir everything together until you have a well-blended, slightly sticky mixture—the cheese and eggs will start to work their magic binding everything together.
Step 4: Shape and Coat
Now for the fun part! Use your hands or a small scoop to form the mixture into balls about 1½ inches in diameter. Roll each ball in the remaining ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs to coat the outside. This step gives every bite that signature crunch and helps the balls hold up beautifully as they bake.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the coated balls on your prepared baking sheet and spray or lightly brush them with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning each ball halfway through for even browning. When your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are deep golden and crisp on the outside, they’re ready! Serve them up warm with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear.
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Garnishes
Give your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls a final flourish by sprinkling them with a little extra grated Parmesan or a handful of fresh chopped parsley. A squeeze of lemon over the top brightens up the flavors, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a playful pop of color and heat for those who love things spicy.
Side Dishes
These cheesy broccoli bites are a natural match for a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple bowl of tomato soup. For parties, serve them alongside an assortment of dips—think ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or a creamy yogurt sauce—for a spread that invites everyone to dig in.
Creative Ways to Present
Get a little whimsical by skewering your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls on toothpicks for a grab-and-go appetizer, or nestle them into slider buns with a swipe of aioli for a fun veggie mini-sandwich. For a brunch buffet, try stacking them in a tower or arranging them on a platter around a colorful dip for a show-stopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll keep their flavor beautifully and can be enjoyed cold or reheated as a quick snack or lunchbox treat.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the unbaked balls on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zipper bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them straight into the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time for a fresh-from-the-freezer snack.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat leftover Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for about 10 minutes. You can also use an air fryer to bring back their original crunch. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works, though the texture will be a bit softer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Thaw it first and be sure to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before chopping and mixing it in, so your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls stay crisp.
What dipping sauces go best with these?
These are versatile! Classic ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a simple marinara pair deliciously with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls. Feel free to get creative with your favorites.
Can I make these gluten free?
Absolutely. Swap regular panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to enjoy a gluten-free version of these cheesy bites without sacrificing crunch.
How can I make them ahead for a party?
You can mix, shape, and coat the balls up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. They also freeze beautifully before baking, so you can prep weeks ahead and bake from frozen whenever you need a party snack.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Definitely! Try mozzarella for extra stretch, a cheese blend for more complex flavor, or even pepper jack if you want a hint of spice. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls texture.
Final Thoughts
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are one of those recipes that always bring a smile—simple ingredients, big flavor, and endless ways to make them your own. I hope you’ll give them a try, share them with friends and family, and add your own twist to this irresistible veggie classic!
Print
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 balls (about 4 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and healthy baked broccoli cheese balls, perfect as a vegetarian appetizer or snack. These crispy golden bites combine fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. Ideal for parties, lunches, or anytime you crave a nutritious treat.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Cheese
- 2 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Other
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly steam or microwave the chopped broccoli for 2–3 minutes until tender. Then let it cool and pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, half of the panko breadcrumbs (½ cup), eggs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and onion powder. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Balls: Use your hands or a small scoop to form the mixture into bite-sized balls approximately 1½ inches in diameter.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in the remaining ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs to evenly coat the surface.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the coated balls on the lined baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray or brush the tops with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil to help achieve a crispy texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, turning the balls halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Bake until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm, optionally accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a cheese blend for different flavors.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
- These broccoli cheese balls can be made ahead and frozen before baking for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 balls
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
