Description
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer that combines steamed broccoli with sharp cheddar cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs, baked to a golden crisp. Perfect for a snack or party finger food, they offer a flavorful and nutritious way to enjoy vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you finish prepping the broccoli cheese balls.
- Steam the broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they turn bright green and are just tender, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Then let them cool slightly to handle.
- Prepare the mixture: Finely chop the cooled broccoli and add it to a large bowl. Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Combine everything thoroughly to form a cohesive mixture.
- Form the balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add olive oil: Drizzle the olive oil over each ball; this helps achieve a crispy, golden exterior when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve warm: Enjoy the broccoli cheese balls warm to savor their best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the broccoli is well-steamed but not overcooked to maintain vibrant color and flavor.
- Chilling the mixture before forming balls can help with shaping and hold.
- These can be frozen before baking for convenient make-ahead snacks; just add a couple extra minutes to baking time if baking from frozen.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor, if desired.
