Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe With Crispy Golden Crust

Name: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: PT-487717H15M55S
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 cups packed roughly chopped soft cooked broccoli (approximately 400g/13 oz raw broccoli); – 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; – 2 eggs; – ¾ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese); – 2 shallots or scallions, finely sliced; – 2 cloves garlic, minced; – ¼ teaspoon salt; – Black pepper to taste; – Olive oil spray; – 2/3 cup plain yoghurt; – Zest of half a lemon; – 1 tablespoon lemon juice; – Half a garlic clove, minced; – 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil; – Salt and pepper to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

There’s something magical about whipping up baked broccoli cheese balls on a busy evening. This recipe is wonderfully simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy parents or students who want a healthy snack without hours in the kitchen. It’s packed with nutrient-rich broccoli and cheese, giving you a boost of vitamins, minerals, and protein in every bite.

Plus, these balls are super adaptable, fitting right into various diets like vegan or gluten-free with just a few tweaks. Imagine the earthy taste of broccoli blending with creamy cheese, creating a snack that’s not only tasty but also fun to eat like little golden surprises straight from the oven. Primary keyword: Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls add a cheerful twist to your meal routine, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again.

One reason these baked broccoli cheese balls stand out is their ease for home cooks and food enthusiasts. You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have, turning a simple recipe into a personalized favorite. Whether you’re a working professional looking for quick meals or a baking enthusiast experimenting in the kitchen, this dish brings joy and satisfaction.

Health Benefits and Versatility

Let’s talk about why these balls are a winner for diet-conscious folks. They’re loaded with veggies, helping you sneak in more greens without the fuss. For instance, if you’re aiming to eat healthier, swapping in almond meal for breadcrumbs keeps things gluten-free while maintaining that crispy edge.

I remember the first time I tried this; it felt like chatting with an old friend over snacks. The flavor is distinctive, with broccoli’s natural earthiness paired with melted cheese for a mouthwatering result. It’s versatile too, so whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a side, it fits the bill.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
2. Essential Ingredients for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
5. Mastering Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
8. Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Essential Ingredients for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking, and for baked broccoli cheese balls, you’ll want fresh, simple items that pack a punch. This section lists everything you need, including the Garlic Lemon Yoghurt Sauce, to make the recipe come alive. Let’s break it down into a clear, structured list so you can easily follow along.

Cheese Ball Ingredients

2 cups packed roughly chopped soft cooked broccoli (approximately 400g/13 oz raw broccoli)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 eggs
¾ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese)
2 shallots or scallions, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Garlic Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Ingredients

2/3 cup plain yoghurt
Zest of half a lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Half a garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

This setup ensures you have every item needed, with precise measurements for easy shopping and prep. Remember, using fresh broccoli cooked until soft makes shaping the balls a breeze, just like the tips suggest.

How to Prepare the Perfect Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to dive into making these baked broccoli cheese balls? It’s as straightforward as chatting over coffee. First, preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F and line a baking tray with baking or parchment paper to keep things neat.

Next, in a bowl, combine all the cheese ball ingredients except the olive oil spray, and mash the broccoli while mixing it well for that perfect blend. Scoop a heaped tablespoon of the mixture, press it firmly, flick it into your hand, and form it into a ball. Place it on the tray and repeat to make 15 to 18 balls just imagine the fun of rolling them like little doughy treasures.

Lightly spray the balls with olive oil, then bake for 25 minutes or until they’re golden and slightly crisp. While they bake, mix all the sauce ingredients together and let it sit for at least 20 minutes to boost the flavor. Serve the cheese balls with this lemon yoghurt sauce or ketchup for a tasty finish. For related ideas, check out our creamy chicken and broccoli pasta recipe for more veggie-packed meals.

Additional Preparation Notes

The whole process takes just 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, totaling 40 minutes ideal for newlyweds or seniors wanting quick dishes. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, like using flax eggs, it’ll still turn out great. I always laugh when I think about how these balls remind me of family gatherings where everyone sneaks an extra one before dinner.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

One of the best parts of this recipe is how flexible it is, perfect for travelers or food enthusiasts mixing things up. You can swap cheddar and Parmesan cheeses with vegan options like cashew-based cheese for a dairy-free twist, or replace eggs with flax egg one tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons water.

For vegetable changes, try swapping broccoli with cauliflower or zucchini to play with textures and flavors. Add spices like smoked paprika for a kick, or use dairy-free sauces such as tahini to match your preferences. This makes it easy for busy parents to keep meals exciting without much effort.

According to the gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with ¾ cup almond meal, which keeps the calories around 387 per serving with 17g carbohydrates. It’s all about making the recipe work for you, just like when you’re in the kitchen experimenting with friends.

Mastering Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, let’s amp things up with some pro tips. For crispier balls, lightly spray them with cooking oil before baking and flip them halfway through it’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in texture.

Experiment with flavors by adding chopped jalapeños for heat or fresh herbs like basil for a fresh vibe. Serve them on a platter with colorful dipping sauces for a fun presentation, and for make-ahead options, prepare the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze formed balls for up to 3 months.

If you love variations, form the mixture into patties instead of balls for a new twist. As a serving suggestion, pair with sautéed kale and shredded carrots for a balanced meal. For more inspiration, explore our loaded baked potato chicken casserole to see how we mix veggies and cheese in other ways.

Pro Cooking Techniques

Here are a few extras: Use fresh or frozen broccoli, cooking it until soft for easy shaping, and don’t forget to peel and chop the stems if you’re using them. These tips help ensure your baked broccoli cheese balls turn out perfect every time, adding to the joy of cooking.

How to Store Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls: Best Practices

Storing these baked broccoli cheese balls keeps them fresh for later, which is great for working professionals on the go. Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them on a baking sheet first to avoid sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

When reheating, use a preheated oven at 180°C/350°F for about 5 minutes to bring back that crispiness it’s like giving them a quick refresh. For meal prep, bake in batches and portion them out for easy grabs during the week, making your life a bit simpler and tastier.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Can I use frozen broccoli to make baked broccoli cheese balls?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the broccoli to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps prevent soggy cheese balls and ensures they hold their shape better during baking.

How do I make baked broccoli cheese balls gluten-free?

To make gluten-free broccoli cheese balls, replace traditional breadcrumbs with almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Use about 3/4 cup of almond meal for every 1 cup of breadcrumbs called for in the recipe. This swap keeps the texture similar while making the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What type of cheese works best in broccoli cheese balls?

Cheddar cheese is commonly used because of its sharp flavor and melting quality, but you can also use mozzarella for a milder taste or a blend of cheeses like Parmesan and Monterey Jack for extra depth. Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the broccoli for the best flavor.

Can I prepare broccoli cheese balls ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can freeze broccoli cheese balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through completely.

How can I make baked broccoli cheese balls lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use low-fat or part-skim cheese instead of full-fat varieties and replace some or all of the breadcrumbs with finely ground oats or almond meal. You can also skip added oils or butter, and bake instead of frying, which is already a lower-calorie cooking method for these cheese balls.

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe with Crispy Golden Crust