Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (about 1 small head); 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 eggs, lightly beaten; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these broccoli cheese balls are crispy yet comforting. They’re easy to prep, baked instead of fried, and packed with flavor from two types of cheese and aromatic spices. They’re my go-to for a healthy snack, appetizer, or side dish that everyone enjoys.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (about 1 small head)
1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing

directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then lightly grease or spray it.

Next, I steam or blanch the chopped broccoli for about 3–4 minutes until it’s tender. I drain it thoroughly and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooked broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I stir until everything is fully mixed.

I scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a tight ball, then roll it in extra breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.

I arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil.

I bake them for 15–18 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. Once they cool for a couple of minutes, they’re ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: makes about 16 cheese balls
Kcal: 110 kcal per ball

Variations

Sometimes I swap the cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend for a stretchier texture. Adding chopped jalapeños gives a spicy kick, or I include cooked quinoa for extra protein.

storage/reheating

I store leftover broccoli cheese balls in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep them crisp.

FAQs

Can I freeze these broccoli cheese balls?

Yes, I freeze them before or after baking. I flash-freeze on a tray, then transfer to a container. I reheat them straight from frozen at 375°F until heated through.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely. I thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before chopping and using it in the recipe.

How do I make them gluten-free?

I use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

What’s the best dip to serve with them?

I love serving them with marinara, ranch, or even a yogurt-based garlic sauce.

Can I make them in an air fryer?

Yes, I air-fry them at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a perfectly crisp result.

Conclusion

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are one of my favorite versatile recipes—they’re quick, healthy-ish, and great for sharing. Whether I serve them as a side, snack, or appetizer, they never last long.