Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack or appetizer that combines the goodness of broccoli with the richness of cheese, all wrapped in a crispy coating. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or as a delightful addition to your family dinners. Packed with flavor and a satisfying crunch, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home.

In this recipe, we’ll cover everything from the ingredients needed to detailed steps for preparation and cooking, as well as tips and variations to customize the dish to your liking.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Broccoli

1. Wash and Chop the Broccoli: Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water to remove any dirt. Then chop them into smaller pieces (about 1-inch size) for easier cooking.
2. Boil the Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until tender but still bright green. You want to avoid overcooking it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Drain and Cool: After boiling, drain the broccoli in a colander and run cold water over it to stop the cooking process. Allow the broccoli to cool completely.
4. Chop Finely: Once the broccoli is cool, chop it finely. You can also use a food processor to pulse the broccoli a few times until it’s finely chopped but not pureed.

Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Well: Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. The mixture should be sticky but hold together when formed into a ball. If it’s too dry, add a little more cheese or a splash of water; if it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Forming the Cheese Balls

1. Shape the Balls: With clean hands, take a small portion of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up.
2. Coat the Balls (optional): If you like an extra crispy exterior, roll each ball in additional breadcrumbs to coat them lightly. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch.

Step 4: Cooking the Broccoli Cheese Balls

Option 1: Frying

1. Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan or deep fryer, add enough oil to submerge the cheese balls (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of the mixture in; it should sizzle upon contact.
2. Fry the Cheese Balls: Carefully place a few broccoli cheese balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain the Balls: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the cheese balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Option 2: Baking

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
3. Bake the Cheese Balls: Arrange the cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between them. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Making the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
2. Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more lemon juice for acidity or more garlic powder for extra flavor.
3. Garnish: If desired, top the sauce with chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Step 6: Serving

1. Plate the Cheese Balls: Arrange the broccoli cheese balls on a serving platter.
2. Serve with Dipping Sauce: Serve warm with the garlic dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy them fresh for the best flavor and texture!

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

1. Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli yields the best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli can work, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
2. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese to suit your taste. Mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack can add unique flavors and textures.
3. Add Seasonings: Customize the seasoning to your preference. You can add red pepper flakes for some heat, Italian seasoning for a herby flavor, or smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
4. Experiment with Fillings: Add cooked bacon, diced onions, or other vegetables to the mixture for additional flavor and nutrition.
5. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep the broccoli slightly crunchy before mixing it with the other ingredients. This ensures that the cheese balls don’t become mushy after cooking.
6. Use a Thermometer: When frying, use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Too low, and the cheese balls will absorb excess oil; too high, and they’ll burn.
7. Store Leftovers: Leftover cheese balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Variations

1. Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Follow the baking instructions for a healthier version. Baking reduces oil but still gives you a crispy texture.
2. Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
3. Buffalo Style: Mix in some buffalo sauce with the cheese mixture before shaping the balls. Serve with blue cheese dressing for a tangy dip.
4. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken or turkey broth with vegetable broth if you want to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
6. Cheesy Spinach Balls: Incorporate cooked spinach into the mixture for a delicious twist and added nutrition.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and delicious format. Their crispy exterior, cheesy interior, and savory flavors make them an irresistible snack for any occasion. With this detailed recipe and the accompanying tips and variations, you’re well-equipped to create your own perfect batch of cheesy, broccoli goodness.

Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or fried to perfection, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, and savor the delightful flavors of this nutritious and satisfying treat!

Yield: 24 Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

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Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack or appetizer that combines the goodness of broccoli with the richness of cheese, all wrapped in a crispy coating. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or as a delightful addition to your family dinners. Packed with flavor and a satisfying crunch, they're sure to become a favorite in your home.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling or frying)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat Oven
   Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
   
2. Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
   Steam Broccoli: Steam the chopped broccoli for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and let it cool slightly.
   Chop Finely: Once cooled, chop the broccoli finely.
   
3. Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
   Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   Mix Well: Stir everything together until well combined.
   
4. Step 4: Form the Balls
   Shape Mixture: Use your hands to scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
   Coat with Breadcrumbs: If desired, roll the balls in additional breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
   
5. Step 5: Cook the Cheese Balls
   Baking Method:
   
   Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the broccoli cheese balls on a lined baking sheet.
   Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle with olive oil.
   Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
   Frying Method:
   
   Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of oil over medium heat.
   Fry: Fry the balls in batches, turning occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
   
6. Step 6: Serve
   Cool Slightly: Let the cheese balls cool for a few minutes.
   Enjoy: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara!

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Add-Ins: Feel free to add cooked bacon, diced onion, or other vegetables to the mixture for added flavor.