Broccoli Cheese Balls

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate savory bite that combines crispy golden outside with a cheesy, veggie-filled center. The rich, gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the subtle crunch of the broccoli, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures. These little balls are a comforting, flavorful snack or side dish that feels indulgent while still being packed with nutrients, offering the perfect balance of comfort and health.

These broccoli cheese balls hold a special place in my kitchen. I first made them as a fun way to get my kids to eat more veggies, and they quickly became a favorite. The blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and tender broccoli creates a flavor-packed filling that’s both savory and satisfying. The crispy exterior, thanks to a quick bake or fry, seals in the cheesy goodness, making each bite irresistible.

Broccoli Cheese Balls are perfect for a cozy snack or as a side for dinner. They’re great on their own but even better when dipped in your favorite sauce, like ranch or marinara. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a comforting treat, these little bites are sure to impress and disappear in no time!

Perfect for:

Appetizers or party snacks
Family dinners
Kid-friendly meals
Vegetarian snacks
Meal prep for the week

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Broccoli Cheese Balls will become a favorite in your kitchen:

Cheesy & Delicious: The combination of cheese and broccoli creates a rich and satisfying flavor in every bite.
Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside: The golden, crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender, cheesy broccoli center.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with broccoli, these cheese balls are a great way to get in your greens while still enjoying a delicious snack.
Versatile: These can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main dish when paired with a salad.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy these cheesy veggie bites, making them a great option for families.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps mean that you can prepare these cheese balls with minimal effort.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12-14 balls
Calories per serving (1 ball): Approximately 70-80 calories
Key Nutrients per ball: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Broccoli Cheese Balls:

For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:

2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For Frying:

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Ingredient Highlights

Broccoli: A nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it the perfect base for this healthy snack.
Cheddar Cheese: Offers a sharp, rich flavor that melts beautifully into the broccoli mixture, enhancing the overall taste of the balls.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the mix, making the cheese balls even more flavorful.
Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together, ensuring that the balls hold their shape while frying.
Garlic and Spices: These add a layer of depth and warmth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the cheese balls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Broccoli:

Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the chopped broccoli florets. Boil for about 2-3 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green, then drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Chop the Broccoli: Once cooled, chop the broccoli finely and set it aside in a large bowl.

Make the Mixture:

Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the chopped broccoli, add the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help it hold together.

Form the Balls:

Shape the Mixture: Take small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Coat each ball lightly with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Place on a Plate: Arrange the formed balls on a plate or tray, ready for frying.

Fry the Broccoli Cheese Balls:

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Fry the Balls: Carefully drop the broccoli cheese balls into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry each batch for 3-4 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Drain on Paper Towels: Once the balls are crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve:

Serve Hot: Serve the Broccoli Cheese Balls immediately while they are still warm and crispy. These can be served with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.

How to Serve

Broccoli Cheese Balls can be served in a variety of ways:

As an Appetizer: Serve them at your next party or gathering with a side of dipping sauce for guests to enjoy.
As a Snack: These cheesy bites are perfect for snacking any time of day, whether for lunch or as an after-school treat.
With a Salad: Pair them with a light salad for a more substantial meal or side dish.
For Meal Prep: Make a batch and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

Additional Tips

Bake Instead of Fry: For a healthier option, you can bake these cheese balls at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for different flavors.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
Reheat Easily: If you have leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or basil can be added to the mixture for added flavor.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Broccoli Cheese Balls:

Spinach and Cheese Balls: Add cooked spinach along with the broccoli for a green twist and extra nutrition.
Bacon Cheddar Broccoli Balls: Add crumbled bacon to the mixture for a savory, smoky flavor.
Spicy Broccoli Cheese Balls: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Mozzarella Cheese Balls: Use mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a gooey, melty center.
Vegan Broccoli Cheese Balls: Use vegan cheese and breadcrumbs to make these a dairy-free treat.
Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning and swap the cheddar for Parmesan or provolone cheese.
Zucchini Cheese Balls: Add grated zucchini to the mixture for extra moisture and a mild flavor.
Cauliflower Cheese Balls: Substitute broccoli with cauliflower for a lighter, milder option.
Crispy Panko Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy exterior.
Herbed Broccoli Balls: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives for a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: You can freeze un-fried broccoli cheese balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Fry from frozen when you’re ready to eat.
Storage: Store leftover cooked cheese balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Broccoli Cheese Balls easier:

Skillet or Frying Pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet is perfect for frying the cheese balls and ensuring even cooking.
Baking Sheet (for freezing): Use a baking sheet to freeze the un-fried cheese balls before storing them in a bag.
Food Processor: If you have a food processor, use it to finely chop the broccoli, making preparation faster and easier.

FAQ Section

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the broccoli cheese balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a great option for a healthier version. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use non-dairy breadcrumbs.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Frozen broccoli works, but be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before chopping it up.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these cheese balls gluten-free.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a fantastic, bite-sized snack or side dish that combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the creamy richness of melted cheese. Each ball is packed with flavor, with a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, cheesy interior that perfectly complements the freshness of the broccoli.

What truly makes this recipe shine is its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a party snack, or a nutritious addition to a meal, these Broccoli Cheese Balls are sure to please a wide range of tastes. The balance of flavors and textures ensures that each bite is satisfying and delicious, while the simple ingredients make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or when you need something quick and healthy.

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies for both kids and adults alike. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make and how quickly they disappear! Be sure to share your creations with me on social media—I’d love to see how you enjoy them! Enjoy every cheesy, veggie-packed bite!