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Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

May 29, 2026
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Crispy broccoli cheese balls served on a plate with dipping sauce

Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delightful snack or side dish that your whole family will love. Packed with flavor and easy to make, these cheesy bites are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a tasty appetizer, they are sure to be a hit! You may also find Easy Cast Iron Mac And Cheese Recipe Crispy Topping useful.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
  • A fun way to incorporate vegetables into your diet.
  • Ideal for meal prep; they reheat well and maintain their deliciousness.
  • Kids love them, making family meals more enjoyable.
  • Great for parties or gatherings as a crowd-pleasing snack.


Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls
You may also find Air Fryer Crispy Chickpeas Smoky Paprika Snacks useful.

Ingredients Needed

  • Veggies:
    • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
  • Cheese:
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Protein:
    • 1 large egg
  • Grains:
    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • Spices:
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying:
    • Optional, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you decide to bake the balls. You may also find Beef And Broccoli Stir Fry useful.

2. Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix well

Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and form a cohesive mixture.

4. Form the balls

Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter.

5. Cook the balls

If frying, heat oil in a pan and fry the balls until golden brown. If baking, place the balls on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until they are golden.

6. Cool before serving

Allow the crispy broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delectable creation!


Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

  • Serve these delicious bites with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
  • Pair them with a fresh salad to create a balanced meal.
  • Offer a variety of dips, such as ranch or homemade garlic sauce, for extra flavor.
  • A glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea complements these crispy treats perfectly.

Tips for Success with Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

  • Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the steamed broccoli for better texture.
  • If you prefer a healthier option, bake them instead of frying for a lower fat version.
  • Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or blue cheese, to create unique flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Variations

Here are a few easy ways to change it up:

  • Swap out broccoli for cauliflower for a different flavor and texture.
  • Add some spicy elements, like crushed red pepper or jalapeños, for a kick.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese substitutes and an egg replacement like flaxseed.

Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

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Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

How do I reheat leftover broccoli cheese balls?

Reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the balls in advance and store them in the refrigerator before cooking.

Are Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
Crispy broccoli cheese balls served on a plate with dipping sauce

Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

A delightful and cheesy snack that's quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. These crispy broccoli cheese balls are a fun way to incorporate vegetables into your diet and are sure to please the whole family.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

Veggies
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture for better texture.
Cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with different cheeses.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Protein
  • 1 large egg Can be replaced with an egg substitute for a vegan version.
Grains
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Spices
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
  • Optional, for frying If baking, no oil is needed.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you decide to bake the balls.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and form a cohesive mixture.
  4. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
Cooking
  1. If frying, heat oil in a pan and fry the balls until golden brown.
  2. If baking, place the balls on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes or until they are golden.
Serving
  1. Allow the crispy broccoli cheese balls to cool slightly before serving.
  2. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping or pair them with a fresh salad.

Notes

To maintain crispiness when reheating, bake leftover balls at 350°F for about 10 minutes. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before cooking.
Written By

Stephanie Mitchell

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