Broccoli Cheese Balls – A Crispy & Cheesy Delight
If you’re looking for a fun, crispy, and cheesy way to enjoy vegetables, these Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect snack! Packed with fresh broccoli, gooey cheese, and flavorful seasonings, these veggie bites are a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you need Easter lunch ideas vegetarian-style, fun broccoli recipes, or veggie tots recipes, this dish is easy to make, delicious, and versatile!
What Are Broccoli Cheese Balls?
Broccoli cheese balls are crispy, bite-sized veggie snacks made with chopped broccoli, cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They are lightly fried or air-fried to golden perfection, making them a delicious alternative to traditional tater tots or fried appetizers. Whether you serve them as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, these broccoli cheese balls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Balls
To make these crispy and cheesy veggie balls, you’ll need:
For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:
- Fresh Broccoli: 2 cups, finely chopped (or frozen, thawed & drained)
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (for a melty, cheesy bite)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (adds a rich, salty flavor)
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): ½ cup (helps bind the mixture)
- Eggs: 2 large (binds everything together)
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (adds depth of flavor)
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (for a subtle sweetness)
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons (for freshness)
For the Coating:
- Flour: ½ cup (for dredging)
- Egg: 1 large, beaten (for coating)
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (for a crispy outer layer)
For Frying or Air Frying:
- Vegetable Oil: For deep frying (or use cooking spray for air frying)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Ranch Dressing – A creamy, classic dip
- Marinara Sauce – A tangy tomato-based option
- Garlic Aioli – A flavorful homemade sauce
Kitchen Equipment Needed
For this healthy frozen broccoli recipe, you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls – for preparing the broccoli mixture
- Food Processor or Knife – for chopping broccoli finely
- Air Fryer or Deep Fryer – for crisping up the broccoli balls
- Baking Sheet – for assembling the balls before cooking
- Tongs – for flipping during cooking
- Paper Towels – for draining excess oil
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make crispy and delicious broccoli cheese balls!
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Chop the Broccoli: Finely chop fresh broccoli florets or pulse in a food processor.
- Steam Lightly (if using fresh broccoli): Cook chopped broccoli in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until slightly tender. Let it cool.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
- Stir well until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Repeat until all the mixture is used and place the balls on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Coat the Broccoli Balls
- Roll each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish.
Step 5: Cook the Broccoli Cheese Balls
Option 1: Deep Frying
8. Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
9. Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
10. Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly before serving.
Option 2: Air Frying
11. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
12. Spray the broccoli balls lightly with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket.
13. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Chop Broccoli Finely: This helps everything stick together and prevents large chunks from breaking apart.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Shredding cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t Skip the Coating: The flour, egg, and breadcrumbs create a crispy, golden crust.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Add paprika, cayenne, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining Frozen Broccoli: Excess moisture makes the mixture too soft. Squeeze out water before mixing.
- Skipping the Egg & Breadcrumbs: These ingredients bind everything together—without them, the balls may fall apart.
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Cook in batches to ensure even crisping.
Serving and Dipping Sauce Ideas
These crispy broccoli cheese balls pair well with:
- Ranch Dressing – A creamy dip that enhances the flavor
- Marinara Sauce – A tangy tomato-based dip
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo – A mix of mayo and Sriracha for a spicy kick
- Yogurt Dill Sauce – A light and refreshing option
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked broccoli cheese balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Variations and Ingredient Swaps
- Broccoli & Mushroom Bites: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
- Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower Bites: Swap half the broccoli for cauliflower.
- Cheesy Spinach Balls: Replace half the broccoli with chopped spinach.
- Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly version.
FAQ About Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Can I make these gluten-free? Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- What cheese works best? Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack work great for a melty texture.
- Are these good for kids? Absolutely! They are kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in veggies.
Conclusion
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun snack for kids. Whether you’re looking for healthy frozen broccoli recipes, fun broccoli recipes, or an easy Easter vegetarian lunch idea, this dish delivers delicious results every time!
Try this veggie tots recipe today and enjoy a flavorful, bite-sized veggie treat! Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe for more creative vegetable dishes! 😊
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Broccoli Cheese Balls – A Crispy & Cheesy Delight
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls are packed with cheesy goodness and fresh broccoli, making them a fun, delicious snack for kids and adults alike. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish, they’re crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Try them fried, baked, or air-fried for a healthier twist!
Ingredients
For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:
✅ 2 cups fresh broccoli, finely chopped (or frozen, thawed & drained)
✅ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✅ ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
✅ ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
✅ 2 large eggs
✅ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
✅ 1 teaspoon onion powder
✅ Salt & black pepper, to taste
✅ 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Coating:
✅ ½ cup flour (for dredging)
✅ 1 large egg, beaten
✅ 1 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy outer layer)
For Frying or Air Frying:
✅ Vegetable oil (for deep frying) OR cooking spray (for air frying)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
✅ Ranch dressing
✅ Marinara sauce
✅ Spicy Sriracha mayo
Instructions
1️⃣ Chop the Broccoli: Finely chop fresh broccoli florets or pulse in a food processor.
2️⃣ Steam Lightly (if using fresh broccoli): Microwave for 1-2 minutes until slightly tender. Let cool.
3️⃣ In a large bowl, combine broccoli, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
4️⃣ Stir until the mixture holds together when pressed.
5️⃣ Scoop 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
6️⃣ Place all the balls on a baking sheet.
7️⃣ Roll each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat in breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Option 1: Deep Frying
8️⃣ Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
9️⃣ Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
🔟 Drain on paper towels.
Option 2: Air Frying
1️⃣1️⃣ Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
1️⃣2️⃣ Spray broccoli balls lightly with cooking spray and place in the air fryer.
1️⃣3️⃣ Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
1️⃣4️⃣ Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Drain Frozen Broccoli Well: Excess moisture can make the mixture too soft.
- Customize the Seasoning: Add paprika or cayenne pepper for extra spice.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Baking Option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
