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Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
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Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are golden, crunchy spheres packed with melty sharp cheddar and nutritious broccoli. Baked to perfection for a guilt-free, flavorful snack or appetizer, they offer a satisfying texture contrast and wholesome ingredients, perfect for parties, family snacks, or healthy indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed and finely chopped)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Broccoli: Steam fresh broccoli until tender yet slightly firm, then cool. Finely chop it by hand or pulse in a food processor to achieve an even texture.
  2. Mix Cheese and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with shredded sharp cheddar, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful base.
  3. Add Binding Ingredients: Whisk eggs in a separate bowl and pour into the broccoli-cheese mixture. Gradually add panko breadcrumbs until the mixture is firm enough to hold shape without falling apart.
  4. Shape into Balls: Form uniform balls about 1 to 2 inches in diameter using your hands or a spoon, ensuring they are compact and smooth for even baking.
  5. Coat with Extra Breadcrumbs: Roll each ball in additional panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the balls for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to develop an even golden, crunchy crust.

Notes

  • Dry Broccoli Well: Remove as much moisture as possible from steamed broccoli to avoid soggy cheese balls.
  • Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded for improved texture.
  • Don’t Overcrowd Baking Tray: Leave enough space between balls to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  • Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate formed balls for 15-20 minutes to help them hold their shape during baking.
  • Customize Coating: Mix parmesan into the breadcrumb coating for added flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheese balls, baked broccoli balls, crispy appetizer, healthy snack, cheesy bites, gluten-free snack, party finger food

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/crispy-baked-broccoli-cheese-balls/