Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a healthy, satisfying snack or side dish. Packed with fiber-rich broccoli and gooey melted cheese, they’re oven-baked instead of fried — making them perfect for kids, parties, or anyone trying to sneak more veggies into their diet. Great for vegetarians and low-carb eaters!
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients
Main:
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular; use almond flour for low-carb)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for brushing)
Optional Add-ins:
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Pinch of red pepper flakes
1 tbsp chopped green onion or parsley
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a party appetizer with dipping sauces.
Pair with a side salad or grilled chicken for a light meal.
Great for lunchboxes or kid-friendly snacks.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
Steam or microwave the broccoli until tender (about 4–5 minutes).
Let it cool slightly, then finely chop or pulse in a food processor until rice-sized.
Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel or paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
In a large bowl, mix chopped broccoli, egg, cheeses, garlic, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
Mix until everything is fully combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs 1 tbsp at a time.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls with your hands.
You should get around 16 balls. Place on a lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Optional: Lightly brush balls with olive oil for extra crispness.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Tips & Notes
Squeeze the broccoli well this prevents soggy balls.
Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor, or mozzarella for a milder version.
Add cooked bacon bits for a savory twist.
Make a double batch and freeze extras for quick snacks.
Can be made gluten-free with GF breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes! Just thaw and drain it well, then chop or pulse in a food processor.
Q: Can I air fry them instead of baking?
A: Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast.
Q: What dips go well with these?
A: Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, tzatziki, or spicy yogurt dip.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes for best texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: ~180
Protein: 10g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Net Carbs: ~10g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: ~300mg