Description
Crispy golden broccoli cheese balls bring irresistible comfort to classic vegetable snacking. Packed with sharp cheddar and tender broccoli, these bite-sized morsels offer you a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome, cheesy treat that satisfies hunger with surprising flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese or mozzarella
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Binding Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 400F (200C) and cover a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Steam broccoli florets until tender yet vibrant, approximately 3-4 minutes, then finely chop after cooling.
- Blend chopped broccoli with cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Craft compact spheres using hands or a cookie scoop, positioning them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, rotating midway, until exterior turns golden and crisp with a crunchy texture.
- Present immediately alongside a complementary dipping sauce for enhanced flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- Precision matters when steaming broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and prevent overcooking, which can make the texture mushy.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and a more intense flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Ensure broccoli is completely cooled and well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the balls soggy during baking.
- For a gluten-free version, swap panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg