Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a scrumptious, nutritious snack that combine fresh broccoli with melted cheddar cheese in golden, crispy bites. Perfect for family gatherings, lunchboxes, or casual snacking, these cheese balls are simple to make and always a hit with both kids and adults. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces for an irresistible treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside: The panko coating gives the perfect crunch, while cheddar adds gooey goodness.
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Healthy and satisfying: Fresh broccoli packs nutrients, and baking instead of frying keeps it lighter.
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Easy to make: Ready in about 40 minutes with minimal ingredients.
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Kid-friendly: A sneaky way to get children to enjoy their veggies!
Ingredients
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2 cups fresh broccoli florets
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Shape the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve warm with dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or your favorite creamy dip.
Notes
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Make ahead: Prepare the balls in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
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Freezing tip: Freeze the unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
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Cheese options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 ball ~30g)
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Calories: 70 kcal
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Fat: 4 g
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Saturated Fat: 2 g
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Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
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Trans Fat: 0 g
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Carbohydrates: 6 g
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Fiber: 1 g
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Protein: 3 g
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Sodium: 150 mg
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Cholesterol: 30 mg
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Sugar: 0 g
Tips for Success
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Make sure the broccoli is well-drained after blanching to avoid soggy balls.
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Use slightly firm cheese for better texture; soft cheeses can make the mixture too wet.
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Roll balls evenly to ensure uniform baking and crispiness.
Conclusion
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect combination of nutritious and indulgent. Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, they are a versatile snack that works for any occasion—from kid-friendly lunches to party appetizers. With a quick preparation and baking method, these golden bites are sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: ~16–18 cheese balls
Description
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients—an irresistible snack for kids and adults alike. Golden on the outside and gooey on the inside, these baked bites combine fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch without frying. Perfect for lunchboxes, family gatherings, or casual snacking, these cheese balls are quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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In a large bowl, combine blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
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Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve warm with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the balls in advance and store in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing Tip: Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
