Description
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a deliciously crispy and cheesy appetizer made with fresh steamed broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Baked to golden perfection and drizzled with olive oil, they make a perfect finger food for parties or a tasty snack any time.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the broccoli cheese balls.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they turn bright green and are just tender, approximately 3-5 minutes. Then let them cool slightly to handle safely.
- Combine Ingredients: Finely chop the cooled broccoli and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place these balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over each broccoli cheese ball. This helps them crisp up nicely during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the broccoli cheese balls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm to enjoy the best texture and flavor of these delicious bites.
Notes
- Steaming broccoli just until tender is key to maintaining a good texture without becoming mushy.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor or add your own herbs and spices.
- Drizzling olive oil is essential to achieve a crisp exterior without deep frying.
- These can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for an added touch.
