Title Delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
What is comfort food? Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly golden, crispy ball that bursts with cheesy, broccoli.What are some of the best broccoli cheese balls recipes?Are like the sophisticated cousin of mac and cheese bites – packed with nutrients and flavor. What makes food fun? My grandma used to make something similar with potatoes, but trust me, broccoli takes it to a whole new level. I even snuck some into my nephew’s lunchbox yesterday – he came home raving! And between us? I think they’re even easier to make than fried mozzarella sticks, and much more satisfying too. This one is a crowd pleaser!
What is the best Broccoli cheese ball recipe?
Okay, so picture this: you’ve got tender, slightly steamed broccoli florets all chopped up and mingled with a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce. We’re talking sharp cheddar, maybe a little Parmesan for that extra *oomph*, and a hint of garlic to round everything out. Then, you form those cheesy broccoli bits into bite-sized balls, coat them in crispy breadcrumbs, and bake (or fry, if you’re feeling extra indulgent!) them until they’re golden brown and melty inside. It’s essentially a cheesy broccoli casserole, but in adorable, easy-to-eat portions. And the best part? Kids actually *like* eating their broccoli this way. It’s a win-win! Think of it as the ultimate sneaky way to get everyone to eat their greens, disguised as a fun and tasty treat.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I begin? What I love most about these books?What are some of the best broccoli cheese balls recipes?What makes them so versatile? Can you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack? They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. The flavor is out of this world – the slight bitterness of the broccoli is perfectly balanced by the flavor of lemon. What are some of the best breadcrumbs in the world? What’s a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite? What are some of the easiest things to make? Is it possible to cook a meal with just one hand? Plus, they’re surprisingly budget-friendly. Broccoli and cheese are staples in most kitchens, so you probably already have a lot of them. What are the ingredients on hand? Is it cheaper than ordering appetizers at a restaurant? This recipe reminds me a bit of my spinach artichoke dip bites, but less fussy, and even more fun to make. Did I mention the kids love them? Because they really, really do.
How do you make Broccoli cheese balls?
Quick Overview
Making these What are some of the best broccoli cheese balls recipes?What are some good ways to steam broccoli and chop it up? How do I make cheesy sauce? Is it safe to fry breadcrumbs in a pan? What is the beauty of this recipe is how forgiving it is – you can easily adjust the amount of cheese or sauce you like. How do you cook broccoli? If you’re short on time, you can even use frozen broccoli and shredded cheese (just make sure to freeze them). How do I thaw ice? If you’re not a seasoned chef, you can nail this recipe. How do you cook broccoli?
Ingredients Notes
For the Main Batter:
Broccoli: Fresh is best, but frozen (thawed and drained) works in a pinch. What is the best way to eat broccoli? Make sure to chop it pretty small for even cooking and easy ball-forming.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for extra cheesy flavor, but you can use any cheese you like. What is a good mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack? I prefer to shred my own cheese, but pre-shredded cheese will also work.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth to the balls. Don’t skip it!
Eggs: These act as a binder to hold the balls together.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs for this recipe. Panko breadcrumb will add extra crunch! Can you use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Garlic Powder: A little garlic powder adds a subtle, savory flavor.
Onion Powder: For a touch of sweetness and depth.
Salt and pepper: To taste!
For the Coating: What is the
Breadcrumbs: Again, I use plain breadcrumbs. Seasoned breadcrumb can also be used for extra flavor! What are some good substitutes for Parmesan cheese in breadcrumbs?
What are some optional spices Is it necessary to add onion powder to breadcrumbs?
What is the step-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment. What is parchment paper? How do you prevent broccoli cheese balls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze? I always find that parchment paper is a lifesaver when baking anything cheesy!
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Lightly steam broccoli florets until they are tender. Can you do this in a steamer basket over boiling water, or in the microwave with just water? Even by roasting. I usually steam them for about 5-7 minutes, until they are bright green and easily pierced with a slit knife. I like to make them crispy. Do not overcook them or they will become mushy!
Step 3: Chop the Broccoli
Once the broccoli is steamed, let it cool slightly, then chop it into small pieces. How do you make balls? I usually use a sharp knife for this, but you can also use food processor if you’re short on time.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic, and salt. Set aside. Powder, onion powder, salt, pepper. What is your cheesy broccoli base?
Step 5: Combine Broccoli and Cheese
Add the chopped broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Make sure the broccoli is evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
Step 6: Form into Balls
How do you shape the broccoli cheese mixture into balls? Aim for about 1-inch in diameter. I always wet my hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.
Step 7: Coat in Breadcrumbs
Place breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. What is the best way to roll a broccoli cheese ball in breadcrumbs? How do you press breadcrumbs onto balls of dough?
Step 8: Bake
Place the breaded broccoli cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. If you want them extra crispy, you can broil them for the last minute or two, but keep a close eye on them. How do you prevent burning?
Step 9: Cool & Serve
Let the broccoli cheese balls cool slightly before serving. How do you set up cheese? Serve warm and enjoy!
Step 10: Frying Option
Can you fry broccoli cheese balls for an extra crispy treat? In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Fry the balls in batches until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately
What should I serve it with?
These What are some of the best broccoli cheese balls recipes?Are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. What are some great appetizers served with ranch dressing?For Breakfast:What are some of the best breakfast recipes? What is better: scrambled eggs and coffee? What is the best way to sneak in veggies first thing in the morning?For Brunch: Arrange them artfully on a platter with a variety of dips, such as a creamy dill sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo. Serve alongside mimosas for a festive brunch spread.
As Dessert: Okay, not really as dessert. BUT, you could serve them as a savory appetizer before a sweet dessert course. The contrast is surprisingly delightful!
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy them on their own as a satisfying snack on a chilly evening. Pair them with a glass of wine or a cup of hot cocoa for ultimate comfort.
My family loves to serve them with a simple green salad for a light and healthy meal. I’ve also been known to add them to pasta dishes for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients. Really, the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite way to enjoy these cheesy broccoli bites.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Want to take your delicious broccoli cheese balls recipe to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:
Broccoli Prep: Be sure to chop the broccoli into small, even pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly and are easy to form into balls. If you’re using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture. Nobody likes soggy cheese balls!
Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the cheese mixture. Overmixing can result in tough, rubbery cheese balls. Just mix until everything is combined.
Cheese Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of blue cheese can add a unique flavor. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.
Breadcrumb Boost: Toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet before coating the cheese balls. This will add extra flavor and crunch.
Baking Tips: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. This will prevent the cheese balls from browning properly. If necessary, bake them in batches.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a little kick. Or, add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for extra flavor.
Get Creative: Consider adding other vegetables to the mix, such as chopped carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and add more flavor.
And remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. Just keep experimenting and tweaking the recipe until you find what works best for you.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These delicious broccoli cheese balls recipe are best served fresh, but they can also be stored for later. Here’s how:
Room Temperature: They can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They might get a little softer, but they’ll still be delicious!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the broccoli cheese balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen broccoli cheese balls, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they might not be as crispy.
The beauty of this recipe is that they’re just as delicious reheated as they are fresh out of the oven. So, feel free to make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These delicious broccoli cheese balls recipe are more than just a snack; they’re a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with a little love, can create something truly special. The satisfaction of biting into a crispy, cheesy ball of goodness is unparalleled, and knowing that you’ve snuck in some healthy broccoli makes it even better! Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, these cheesy bites are sure to be a hit with everyone. And if you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other cheesy appetizer creations! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Happy cooking!
Remember it later
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Title Delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, finely chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup bread crumbs use gluten-free if desired
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small balls about the size of a golf ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top of each ball for an extra cheesy crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
