Broccoli Cheese Balls – A Crispy & Cheesy Delight
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!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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.
Step 5: Cook the Broccoli Cheese BallsOption 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.