Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack! Packed with melty cheese and nutritious broccoli, these golden, crunchy bites are great for parties, appetizers, or even a fun side dish. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients and can be baked, fried, or air-fried for a healthier twist.
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Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Crispy & Cheesy – The perfect combination of crunchy and gooey!
- Kid-Friendly – A great way to sneak in some greens for picky eaters.
- Versatile – Bake, fry, or air-fry for your preferred crunch level.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and freeze for a quick snack anytime!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Balls
To make these delicious bites, you’ll need:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (steamed or blanched)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk (for dipping, optional if frying)
- Oil for frying (if frying)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Skillet (if frying)
- Air fryer (if air-frying)
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes, then finely chop it. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and flour. Mix until everything sticks together. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Shape into Balls
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Step 4: Coat the Balls
Roll each ball in milk (if frying), then in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Step 5: Cook the Broccoli Cheese Balls
Option 1: Frying (Extra Crispy)
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel.
Option 2: Baking (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy & Light)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the balls in a single layer in the basket.
- Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Let the broccoli cheese balls cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Serve as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish with grilled chicken or burgers.
- Add to a salad for a fun, crunchy topping.
Notes
- Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Want extra crunch? – Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
- Cheese variations – Try mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or air-fry for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes! Thaw and drain well before chopping to avoid excess moisture.
Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prep the balls and freeze them raw. Just bake, fry, or air-fry when ready.
Q3: What’s the best way to make them extra crispy?
A: Double coat them in breadcrumbs and use panko for extra crunch!
Conclusion: The Ultimate Cheesy Snack!
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy, cheesy, and totally addictive! Whether you bake, fry, or air-fry, they’ll be a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that’s packed with flavor. Try them out, and let us know how they turn out!
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us on Pinterest!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 180 | Protein: 7g | Carbohydrates: 14g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg
Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack! Packed with melty cheese and nutritious broccoli, these golden, crunchy bites are great for parties, appetizers, or even a fun side dish. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients and can be baked, fried, or air-fried for a healthier twist.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more quick and delicious snack recipes straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (steamed or blanched)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk (for dipping, optional if frying)
- Oil for frying (if frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes, then finely chop it. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and flour. Mix until everything sticks together. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Shape into Balls
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Step 4: Coat the Balls
Roll each ball in milk (if frying), then in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Step 5: Cook the Broccoli Cheese Balls
Option 1: Frying (Extra Crispy)
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel.
Option 2: Baking (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy & Light)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the balls in a single layer in the basket.
- Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Let the broccoli cheese balls cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Want extra crunch? – Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.
- Cheese variations – Try mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
