If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing snack that checks all the boxes—crunchy, cheesy, flavorful, and packed with veggies—then Broccoli Cheese Balls are about to become your kitchen’s new best friend. These irresistible golden bites combine tender broccoli florets with melty cheddar, savory Parmesan, and a satisfying breadcrumb crunch. Perfect as an appetizer or party finger food, they’re delicious whether baked, fried, or air-fried, and they disappear in minutes wherever you serve them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Broccoli Cheese Balls lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient brings something essential to the table, whether that’s creamy richness, zesty punch, or the satisfying crunch that makes these bites standout stars at any gathering.
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen, just make sure it’s cooked and finely chopped so it melds perfectly with the cheeses.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Brings ooey-gooey meltiness and big, bold flavor—sharp cheddar is the secret hero in these balls.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth and creates that extra layer of cheesy deliciousness.
- Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding everything together; also provides that craveable crispy coating if you roll the balls before cooking.
- Egg: Acts as the glue holding the mixture together, helping the balls keep their shape as they bake or fry.
- Garlic: Adds a fresh, savory kick and deepens the overall flavor profile—freshly minced is best.
- Onion Powder: Balances the other flavors and offers a subtle sweetness in the background.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Enhance all the cheesy, savory notes; taste and adjust to make these balls your own.
- Oil or Baking Spray: Use a neutral oil for frying or baking spray for a lighter touch if you go the oven route.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Mix Up the Filling
Start by adding the cooked, finely chopped broccoli into a large mixing bowl, followed by the shredded sharp cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and that all-important egg. Using a large spoon (or your clean hands!), mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture easily clumps together. If it seems a bit loose, a tablespoon or two of extra breadcrumbs will help thicken things up.
Step 2: Shape into Balls
Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion the mixture and roll it in your hands to form perfect bite-sized balls. This is the part that’s surprisingly fun—like making edible play dough! If you want extra crunch, gently roll each ball in more breadcrumbs, ensuring a nice even coating all around.
Step 3: Let Them Chill
Pop the formed Broccoli Cheese Balls onto a parchment-lined tray or plate and slide them into the fridge for 15–20 minutes. This little chill time helps the balls firm up, so they’ll hold their shape beautifully whether you’re frying or baking them.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
If frying, heat a few inches of oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Gently add the balls in batches, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and irresistibly crisp—usually about 2–3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels. For a lighter touch, bake them on a parchment-lined sheet at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, spraying lightly with oil and flipping halfway, or air-fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until crisp and brown.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color, while a shower of extra grated Parmesan takes your Broccoli Cheese Balls to the next level. If you love a bit of heat, a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha won’t steer you wrong!
Side Dishes
Serve these crunchy little bites with classic party picks: a big bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing, tangy marinara, or a spicy aioli for dunking. They also pair beautifully with simple salads, roasted veggies, or a platter of fresh crudités for a lighter spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile Broccoli Cheese Balls high on a tiered tray for a buffet, or serve them in paper cones for a fun, portable snack. Skewer them with toothpicks for easy grabbing, or arrange them around a bowl of dip for an inviting (and Instagram worthy) centerpiece at your next get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Broccoli Cheese Balls (a rare occurrence!), simply let them cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty and crisp for up to 3 days, making them a great option for meal prepping or snacking.
Freezing
Broccoli Cheese Balls freeze beautifully, whether cooked or uncooked. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—perfect for pulling out whenever a craving strikes!
Reheating
For best results, reheat Broccoli Cheese Balls in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes (or air fry for just 5 minutes) until hot and crispy again. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of that signature crunch, so the oven is definitely worth the wait!
FAQs
Can I make these Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs for both the mixture and the coating. You won’t even miss the gluten—the result is every bit as tasty and crisp.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen broccoli?
Both work wonderfully! Just make sure to thoroughly cook and drain the broccoli, then chop it finely. This helps keep the texture just right and ensures your Broccoli Cheese Balls hold together beautifully.
Can I air-fry instead of baking or frying?
Yes, air-frying is a fantastic option. At 375°F, your Broccoli Cheese Balls will need just 12 to 15 minutes to get golden and crunchy, with even less oil than baking or frying.
What are the best dipping sauces?
You really can’t go wrong! Ranch, marinara sauce, spicy aioli, honey mustard, or even a classic cheese dip all pair perfectly with Broccoli Cheese Balls. Serve a few different options to please everyone.
Can I add other vegetables or change up the cheese?
Of course! Try tossing in some finely chopped cauliflower, spinach, or red bell pepper for a twist, or swap the cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a smoky gouda for new flavors. This recipe loves a little creativity.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about serving Broccoli Cheese Balls—everyone reaches for seconds, smiles appear, and your kitchen instantly feels warmer. Give this recipe a try and watch these crispy, cheesy bites become a staple at your gatherings and snack times. Happy cooking!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and crispy appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Packed with cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli, these savory bites are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Broccoli Cheese Balls:
- 2 cups cooked and finely chopped broccoli
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying or baking spray if baking
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form Balls: Roll mixture into 1 tablespoon-sized balls. Optional: coat with extra breadcrumbs for crunch. Chill for 15–20 minutes.
- To Fry: Fry in batches in oil until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- To Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Place balls on a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Air-fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
- Serve with ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 balls
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
