Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe

Introduction

Broccoli cheese balls are a tasty and healthy snack that’s easy to make at home. Crispy on the outside and packed with cheesy broccoli goodness inside, they’re perfect for parties, appetizers, or a quick bite. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water and chop into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Step 2: Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and blanch the chopped broccoli for 2-3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
5. Step 5: Add minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well.
6. Step 6: Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix until fully incorporated.
7. Step 7: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using a small scoop or your hands, packing them tightly.
8. Step 8: Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Step 9: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
10. Step 10: Add the broccoli cheese balls to the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
11. Step 11: Transfer cooked balls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
12. Step 12: Arrange on a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley.
13. Step 13: Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Add finely chopped cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.
• Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied taste.
• Make them spicy by increasing red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

Storage

Store leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to retain their crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a safe alternative.

Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 91 reviews

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make healthy snack featuring blanched broccoli mixed with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned with garlic and spices, then pan-fried to a crispy golden perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or a nutritious treat for any time of day.

• Author: Lara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20–24 balls 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Broccoli Cheese Balls

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

Garnish & Serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing (for dipping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water, then chop into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and proper blending with other ingredients.
2. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the chopped broccoli, and blanch for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Add minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to blend flavors evenly.
4. Bind the Mixture: Crack in the eggs and stir thoroughly until the mixture is fully incorporated and sticky enough to hold its shape when formed into balls.
5. Shape the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, tightly pack the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to keep them from sticking.
6. Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the balls to achieve a crispy crust without soaking up excess oil.
7. Cook the Broccoli Cheese Balls: Carefully add the balls to the skillet without overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown, crispy exterior. Use tongs to gently turn the balls for even cooking.
8. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the cooked balls and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil and keep them crisp.
9. Serve and Garnish: Arrange the broccoli cheese balls on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm alongside marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Notes

• Blanching the broccoli helps soften it slightly while retaining its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Using panko breadcrumbs adds an extra crunchy texture to the cheese balls.
• Ensure the oil is adequately heated to prevent the balls from absorbing too much oil during frying.
• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• These cheese balls can be kept warm in a low oven if needed before serving.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or oven for best texture retention.

Keywords: Broccoli cheese balls, healthy snack, cheesy appetizer, fried snacks, broccoli recipes, party appetizers