Mediterranean-inspired Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
These Mediterranean-inspired broccoli cheese balls are a healthy and flavorful snack, appetizer, or side dish. Packed with fresh broccoli, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a lighter choice. They’re gluten-free, vegetarian, and perfect for meal prep or parties. Serve with a side of tzatziki, marinara, or yogurt dip for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, cooked and finely chopped)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular, gluten-free, or panko)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare Broccoli:
Steam or boil the broccoli until tender. Drain well and finely chop. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s fully thawed and squeeze out excess water.
Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Form Balls:
Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serve:
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe Notes
Customizations:
Add chili flakes for spice or swap parsley with cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Make-Ahead Option:
Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Texture Tips:
Ensure broccoli isn’t watery to prevent soggy balls. Squeezing out moisture is key.
Dietary Adaptations:
For low-carb/keto, replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Nutritional Info:
(Per 1 ball, assuming 20 balls per recipe)
Calories: 45
Protein: 3g
Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 100mg
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy bites of goodness guilt-free!