Description
Golden, crispy on the outside and tenderly cheesy inside, these oven-baked broccoli cheese balls are a comforting, kid-friendly appetizer that comes together quickly and disappears even faster.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: 2 cups, finely chopped after steaming
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, freshly shredded
- Mozzarella cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly shredded
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, plain or panko
- Eggs: 2, lightly beaten
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl mix the steamed finely chopped broccoli, cheddar, mozzarella, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt and pepper until evenly combined.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly brush the parchment with a little olive oil to help browning and prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Dish: Scoop tablespoon portions, roll into balls and arrange on the prepared sheet with space between each piece.
- Cook to Perfection: Brush the tops with the remaining olive oil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and set.
- Finishing Touches: Rest the balls for 5 minutes so the cheesy centers settle.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite dip.
Notes
- Note: For cleaner shapes chill the mixture 10 to 15 minutes before rolling.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for superior melt and flavor.
- Switch on the broiler for the last 1 to 2 minutes for extra crisp edges.
- Make-ahead friendly, shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze baked balls on a tray, then store in bags and reheat at 350°F until hot and crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0.7 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg