Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

If you’re searching for a fun, flavorful way to get more veggies into your meals (especially for picky eaters), look no further than these Broccoli Cheese Balls! Golden, crispy on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside, these savory bites are the ultimate combination of comfort and nutrition. Made with steamed broccoli, a trio of cheeses, and breadcrumbs, they’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a side dish at dinner.

Whether you’re planning a family game night, prepping a crowd-pleasing party tray, or just need a new way to enjoy broccoli, this recipe has got your back. And yes – these little cheesy bombs are totally freezer-friendly too!

Why These Broccoli Cheese Balls Work So Well

These aren’t your average veggie bites. Thanks to the combo of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, every bite is loaded with savory, cheesy flavor. The broccoli is steamed and chopped finely, so it blends right into the mix—no big chunks or bitter texture that might turn off little ones. The breadcrumbs provide a perfect binder and give the balls structure, making them easy to form and even easier to cook.

Plus, this recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No fancy equipment needed!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break it down:

2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)

1–2 eggs (as needed, for binding)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional additions: garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes, or finely diced green onion for extra flavor

Oil, for frying (or use an air fryer or bake for a lighter version)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls

Step 1: Steam and Chop the Broccoli
Start by steaming your broccoli florets until tender (about 5–7 minutes), then let them cool slightly. Chop them very finely – almost like a mince – so they blend well with the cheese and don’t overpower the texture.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Crack in one egg and mix well. If the mixture feels too dry to form into balls, add the second egg. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together.

Step 3: Shape and Coat
Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of the mixture and roll into balls. Roll each ball in a shallow dish of breadcrumbs to coat for that extra crunch.

Step 4: Cook the Cheese Balls
You have a few options here:

Fried: Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp.

Baked: Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven on a parchment-lined tray for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Air-Fried: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crispy and golden.

Step 5: Serve Hot & Gooey!
These are best served warm while the cheese is melted and gooey. Dip them in ranch, marinara, spicy mayo, or even just enjoy as-is!

Tips + Tricks for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

Chop broccoli super fine. This ensures even texture and helps everything bind better.

Drain moisture. Make sure broccoli isn’t watery after steaming, or your mix may turn soggy.

Don’t skip the Parmesan. It adds depth of flavor and helps crisp up the coating.

Add seasoning. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can elevate the flavor profile.

Make ahead & freeze. You can shape these in advance and freeze them raw. When ready to serve, cook directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy broccoli cheese balls are super versatile. Here’s how to enjoy them:

Appetizer Platter: Serve with an assortment of dips—ranch, chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, or tzatziki.

Lunchbox Favorite: Great for kids and adults alike. Pack them in a lunchbox with some fruit and crackers.

Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches for a fun twist on traditional sides.

Party Snack: Make them mini-sized for perfect finger food at any party or potluck.

Meatless Monday Meal: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a hearty vegetarian dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked balls on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Use an air fryer or oven to crisp them back up—avoid the microwave if you want to retain the crunch.

Make It Your Own – Flavor Variations!

You can easily customize these to suit your taste or use what’s in your fridge:

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne.

Meaty Option: Mix in cooked crumbled bacon, sausage, or finely chopped ham.

Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, gouda, or feta for a flavor twist.

Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.

Final Thoughts

These Broccoli Cheese Balls 🧀🥦 are the kind of snack that turns a vegetable skeptics into veggie lovers! Crispy, cheesy, and endlessly poppable, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re meal prepping, entertaining, or just looking for something tasty and easy to make, this recipe will not disappoint.

Best of all, it’s a great way to use up leftover broccoli and cheese and make something that feels totally special. So grab your favorite cheeses, steam some broccoli, and get rolling—your taste buds will thank you!

Have you made these Broccoli Cheese Balls? Share your version or photos in the comments—I’d love to see your creations! 💬❤️

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