Name: Irresistible Broccoli Cheese Balls: Crunchy, Cheesy Goodness
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Broccoli (steamed and chopped); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko) (can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs); 1 large Egg (lightly beaten); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 1/2 cup Additional Breadcrumbs

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Have you ever found yourself staring at a broccoli crown and wondering how to make it more exciting? I did too, and that’s when I dove into creating these Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls. The moment you bite into one, the satisfying crunch gives way to a creamy, cheesy center that’s simply irresistible. Not only do they transform the humble broccoli into a fun snack, but they also shine at any gathering as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Perfect for those busy evenings when you want something quick yet wholesome, these little gems can easily satisfy both adults and kids alike. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to customize—swap out the cheddar for mozzarella, toss in some herbs, or even sneak in a few bacon bits for that extra flair. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s turn our veggies into a delightful treat that you’ll want to make again and again!

Why are Broccoli Cheese Balls a Must-Try?

Crispy Delight: The satisfying crunch of these broccoli cheese balls will make you rethink how you enjoy your veggies!
Cheesy Goodness: The gooey melted cheese inside is the perfect complement to the fresh broccoli, offering a delicious flavor combination.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap different cheeses or add herbs and spices, making it adaptable to your taste.
Quick Preparation: Ready in 30 minutes, these snacks are ideal for busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, even picky eaters will enjoy these! For more flavorful dips, check out our suggestions for dipping sauces.

Broccoli Cheese Balls Ingredients

• Get ready to create the perfect snack!

For the Mixture

Fresh Broccoli – A key ingredient that adds nutrition and texture; if using frozen, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Delivers rich flavor and creaminess; try swapping with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
Breadcrumbs (Panko) – Ensures a crispy coating; for a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Egg – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; for a vegan alternative, substitute with a flaxseed meal mixture.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; feel free to add garlic or onion powder for extra zest.

Optional Coating

Additional Breadcrumbs – Roll balls in more breadcrumbs for an extra layer of crunch before frying or baking.

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes—let your creativity shine!

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls

Prepare Broccoli: Steam fresh broccoli until it’s tender, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, chop it finely to ensure it’s evenly distributed in the mixture.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed, creating a cohesive mixture.
Shape Balls: Using your hands, form small balls from the mixture, aiming for about the size of a tablespoon each. This should yield around 12-15 balls.
Coat (Optional): For an extra crunch, roll each ball in additional breadcrumbs to create a crispy coating before cooking.
Fry or Bake: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat (around 350°F/175°C) and fry the balls until they are golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Alternatively, bake them on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for roughly 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
Serve: Serve the broccoli cheese balls hot, ideally with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or sweet chili sauce for a delightful addition.

Optional: Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are absolutely perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can form the balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the mixture fresh. Alternatively, if you’re making a larger batch, freeze the uncooked balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months—just remember to label them! When you’re ready to serve, simply bake or fry from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time, and you’ll have delicious, cheesy snacks that are just as delightful as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Fresh Is Best: Using fresh broccoli enhances the overall flavor and texture; ensure it’s finely chopped but not mushy for optimal results.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients gently; overmixing can make the broccoli cheese balls tough instead of light and fluffy.
Cook to Crisp: For extra crispiness, heat the oil to the right temperature—about 350°F (175°C)—before frying the balls to prevent them from being greasy.
Chill Before Cooking: If time allows, refrigerate the formed balls for about 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or sweet chili sauce to complement the cheesy goodness of your broccoli cheese balls.

How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheese Balls

Fridge: Store cooked broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They stay fresh and ready for a quick snack or appetizer.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months for future use.

Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen broccoli cheese balls at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If reheating cooked ones, a quick stir fry or oven method will keep them crispy.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare broccoli cheese balls a day in advance and refrigerate them before cooking, making meal prep a breeze.

Broccoli Cheese Balls Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful bites, transforming them into something uniquely yours! The flavors and textures can easily be adjusted to suit every palate.

Cheese Swaps: Try swapping in mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor experience. The meltiness of mozzarella is sure to delight!
Herbed Up: Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill for an aromatic twist. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a splash of color.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. The warmth blends beautifully with the cheese and broccoli!
Veggie Mix: Replace some broccoli with finely chopped cauliflower or spinach to vary the nutrition profile. This change creates a new flavor while still keeping it veggie-packed!
Bacon Bliss: For a non-vegetarian treat, stir in some crispy bacon bits. The salty crunch of bacon elevates the flavor to new heights!
Vegan Option: Use a flaxseed meal mixture and dairy-free cheese to keep it plant-based while still enjoying that creamy goodness. You won’t miss the egg or dairy!
Seasonal Twist: Feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or sweet peppers. The extra colors not only make the dish prettier but even more nutritious.
Nutty Crunch: Add in chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch and healthy fats. The nuts provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling.

Be daring, experiment, and create a version of Broccoli Cheese Balls that you and your loved ones will cherish!

What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Balls?

Transform your crispy treats into a delightful meal experience with perfect pairings that everyone will love.

Garlicky Aioli: This creamy dip enhances the savory flavor of the cheese balls while adding a delicious garlic note.
Crispy Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese balls, offering a refreshing crunch.
Pasta Salad: A flavorful pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and basil offers a hearty, comforting side that complements the finger-food nature of broccoli cheese balls.
Zesty Marinara Sauce: Classic marinara not only serves as a delightful dip but enhances the Italian-inspired feel of the broccoli cheese balls.
Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate that brings sunshine to your table.
Fruit Platter: A vibrant platter of seasonal fruits provides a sweet balance, offering a contrast to the savory richness of the broccoli cheese balls.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink full of zesty flavor that brightens up the meal and quenches thirst perfectly.
Chocolate Brownies: End the meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies, creating a delightful contrast to the cheese-filled bites.

With these tempting sides and sauces, your Broccoli Cheese Balls will shine as the star of the meal!

Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe FAQs

What kind of broccoli should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli is preferred for making broccoli cheese balls as it provides the best flavor and texture. However, if you’re short on time, you can use frozen broccoli—just be sure to thaw and drain it completely to avoid excess moisture in your mixture.

How do I store leftover broccoli cheese balls?
Leftover cooked broccoli cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they have cooled completely before sealing them up, which helps preserve their crispy texture.

Can I freeze broccoli cheese balls?
Very! To freeze, shape the uncooked broccoli cheese balls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes.

What should I do if my broccoli cheese balls fall apart while cooking?
Oh no! If your broccoli cheese balls are falling apart, it might be due to not enough binder in the mixture. Ensure you’re using an adequate amount of egg, or try adding a little more breadcrumbs to help them hold their shape. Also, chilling the formed balls in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking can make a big difference!

Can I make these broccoli cheese balls vegan?
Certainly! To make a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) for binding. You can also opt for a dairy-free cheese for a fully plant-based delight.

How long do broccoli cheese balls take to cook?
Cooking time varies a bit depending on your method. If frying, aim for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. For baking, it usually takes around 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Keep an eye on them until they reach a beautiful crisp!