Broccoli Cheese Balls

Name: Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating; 1 large egg, beaten; 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

Author: Tessa

Published: July 10, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls have been a go-to in my kitchen for years, ever since I stumbled upon a similar recipe and knew I had to make it my own. There’s something truly magical about biting into these savory treats – that satisfying crunch on the outside giving way to a soft, gooey, cheesy interior, all brightened by the subtle hint of broccoli. They’re incredibly versatile, perfect as a crowd-plepleasing appetizer for game day, or even as a fun side dish that gets everyone, even the picky eaters, excited about veggies.

I’ve tinkered and tested this recipe to perfection, ensuring each ball is packed with flavor and just the right texture. You’re going to absolutely love how easy these are to whip up and how quickly they disappear from the serving plate. Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Cheese Balls

These Broccoli Cheese Balls aren’t just another snack; they’re a revelation! I promise you’ll find yourself making them again and again because they truly hit all the right notes. Here’s why they’re destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

Unbeatable Flavor & Texture: Crispy, golden exterior giving way to a warm, gooey, cheesy center with tender bits of broccoli. Pure comfort food!
Surprisingly Easy to Make: No complicated techniques here, just straightforward steps that yield impressive results.
Incredibly Versatile: Perfect for appetizers, party snacks, a fun side dish, or even a light lunch.
Kid-Friendly Veggie Boost: A fantastic way to get more greens into even the pickiest eaters – they won’t even realize how much broccoli they’re enjoying!

The Irresistible Charm of Broccoli Cheese Balls

There’s a reason these Broccoli Cheese Balls are such a hit. It’s that perfect contrast that makes them so appealing! The delightful crunch of the golden-brown coating offers an immediate textural pleasure, while the inside reveals a melty, savory explosion of cheese and tender broccoli. It’s a combination that truly satisfies, making them an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Quick and Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls for Any Occasion

One of the best things about these Broccoli Cheese Balls is how effortlessly they come together. They’re quick enough for a spontaneous weeknight treat but impressive enough to serve guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you need a last-minute appetizer or a simple, delicious snack, these fit the bill perfectly.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

Crafting delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls starts with gathering the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful interior. I’ve broken down exactly what you’ll need, with a few notes on why specific choices make all the difference.

Broccoli Cheese Balls - detail 1

Fresh Produce for Your Broccoli Cheese Balls

For these Broccoli Cheese Balls, you’ll need 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Make sure they are finely chopped; this helps them integrate seamlessly into the mixture and cook evenly. The fresher the broccoli, the brighter the flavor and color in your finished balls.

Dairy and Pantry Staples for Broccoli Cheese Balls

You’ll want 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that classic cheesy flavor and melt, plus 1/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese for an extra salty, umami kick. For texture, grab 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, with extra set aside for coating. A large, beaten egg acts as your binder, while 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour help with consistency. Finally, for seasoning, you’ll need 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t forget vegetable oil for frying!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls

Making these Broccoli Cheese Balls is a straightforward process, but paying attention to a few key details will ensure they turn out perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully cheesy inside. I’ll walk you through each step, offering my best advice along the way, so you can achieve golden-brown perfection every time. Don’t rush, and enjoy the process!

Preparing the Broccoli for Your Cheese Balls

First things first, let’s get that broccoli ready for your delicious Broccoli Cheese Balls. You’ll want to steam or boil your finely chopped broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on the size of your florets. The most crucial part here is to drain them exceptionally well. After draining, I like to spread them out on a few layers of paper towels and pat them dry. You can even press down gently to squeeze out any remaining moisture. Excess water is the enemy of crispy cheese balls, so don’t skip this step!

Mixing and Forming the Broccoli Cheese Balls

Now for the fun part: bringing all those delicious flavors together for your Broccoli Cheese Balls! In a large mixing bowl, combine your perfectly dried, cooked broccoli with the shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, the beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands, a sturdy spoon, or even a spatula to mix everything until it’s thoroughly combined. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape. Once mixed, start forming small, bite-sized balls – aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. As you form each ball, roll it in the extra breadcrumbs you set aside, ensuring an even coating all around. This breadcrumb layer is what gives them that fantastic crunch!

Frying Your Golden Broccoli Cheese Balls

The final step to achieving those irresistible Broccoli Cheese Balls is frying them to golden perfection. Heat your vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, a good test is to drop a tiny pinch of breadcrumbs into the oil; if it sizzles vigorously, it’s ready. Carefully place a few of your coated broccoli cheese balls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once done, remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear!

Broccoli Cheese Balls - detail 2

Tips for Success with Your Broccoli Cheese Balls

Making these Broccoli Cheese Balls is already pretty straightforward, but a few little tricks can elevate them from good to absolutely amazing. I’ve learned these through plenty of batches, and they really do make all the difference. Pay attention to these details, and you’ll be serving up perfectly crispy, cheesy bites every time.

Ensuring Crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls

The secret to truly crispy Broccoli Cheese Balls lies in moisture control and oil temperature. First, make absolutely sure your broccoli is as dry as possible after steaming or boiling. I can’t stress this enough – excess water leads to soggy, not crispy, results. Pat it dry with paper towels until you think it’s dry, then pat it again! Second, maintain that oil temperature around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too cold, the balls will absorb too much oil and become greasy; too hot, and they’ll burn before the inside is perfectly cooked and gooey.

Creative Variations for Your Broccoli Cheese Balls

While the classic Broccoli Cheese Balls are fantastic, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, a spicy pepper jack for a kick, or even a smoked gouda for a deeper flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes in the mixture adds a nice warmth, or try a dash of smoked paprika for an earthy note. You could also mix in finely chopped cooked beef bacon bits for an extra layer of savory flavor. The possibilities are endless for personalizing these delicious bites!

Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Balls

I get a lot of questions about these delightful Broccoli Cheese Balls, and I love helping you make them perfect every time! Here are some of the most common inquiries I receive, along with my best advice to ensure your batch is a resounding success. From cooking methods to storage and serving suggestions, I’ve got you covered.

Can I Bake These Broccoli Cheese Balls Instead of Frying?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to frying, baking your Broccoli Cheese Balls is a fantastic option. They won’t be quite as crispy on the outside as their fried counterparts, but they’ll still be wonderfully flavorful and cheesy. To bake them, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and heated all the way through. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary!

How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls?

If you happen to have any leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), they store quite well. Simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy again. An air fryer also works wonders for reheating, giving them back some of that fried crispness in just a few minutes.

What are the Best Dipping Sauces for Broccoli Cheese Balls?

These Broccoli Cheese Balls are delicious on their own, but a good dipping sauce takes them to the next level! My personal favorites include a classic marinara sauce, which offers a lovely tangy contrast to the rich cheese. A creamy ranch dressing is always a crowd-pleaser, especially for kids. For something with a little more zing, try a honey mustard sauce or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites; a good dip can really enhance the experience of these savory bites!

Nutritional Information for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate. Actual values can vary significantly based on specific brands of ingredients used, preparation methods, and serving sizes. This information is intended for general guidance only.

Share Your Broccoli Cheese Balls Experience

I absolutely adore hearing from you! If you whip up a batch of these amazing Broccoli Cheese Balls, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know how they turned out, what dipping sauces you served them with, or any fun variations you tried. Don’t forget to rate the recipe! And if you share your delicious creations on social media, be sure to tag me. Happy cooking!