If you’re searching for a snack that combines wholesome goodness with irresistible flavor, look no further than these Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe. They are crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar that make each bite a delightful treat. Perfect for a quick snack or a party appetizer, they strike the ideal balance between nutrition and indulgence without ever feeling heavy or boring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the fresh broccoli providing a vibrant color and nutrient boost, to the cheeses melting into gooey pockets of richness, and the spices adding the perfect hint of kick.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely: Freshness is key here to keep that bright green color and a nice crunch after cooking.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings the signature gooey cheese flavor that melts beautifully inside the balls.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a salty depth and enhances the overall savoriness of the snack.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch): Panko crumbs help create a delightfully crispy exterior that keeps every bite satisfying.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs act as the perfect binder, holding everything together while adding a bit of richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses a delicious aromatic punch to brighten up the mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This subtle seasoning amplifies the savory profile without overpowering the main ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors so every element sings in harmony.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat to keep things interesting.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick): A gentle spicy kick perfect for those who like a bit of fire in their snack.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying): Olive oil ensures the balls become nice and crispy without being greasy.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh sprinkle on top adds a pop of color and light herbal flavor.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by washing your broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Then chop them into small, bite-sized pieces so they blend evenly into the mixture.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the chopped broccoli for just 2 to 3 minutes. This brightens the green color and softens the broccoli slightly while helping keep the nutrients locked in. Once done, plunge the broccoli into ice water to stop the cooking immediately and retain that perfect texture. Drain and pat dry to avoid sogginess in the final product.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs. Add the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well so each piece is evenly seasoned and coated.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Form the Balls
Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir thoroughly to combine. The eggs act as a binder, making it easy to shape the mixture into uniform balls. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form 1-inch balls, packing them tightly so they hold together when cooked.
Step 5: Cook the Broccoli Cheese Balls
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the balls in the pan carefully, giving them space so they crisp evenly without steaming. Fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn gently to avoid breaking. Once cooked, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 6: Final Touches
Arrange the broccoli cheese balls on a serving plate and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. These beauties are now ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese instantly elevates these Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe. You can also drizzle a little honey or balsamic glaze for a subtle sweet contrast if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
Serve these crunchy balls alongside fresh vegetable sticks or a crisp salad for a balanced snack or appetizer. They also pair wonderfully with creamy dips like ranch, marinara, or even a tangy yogurt-based sauce for a refreshing blend.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, stack the broccoli cheese balls on a skewer with cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for colorful, bite-sized kabobs. Or present them in mini muffin liners for a charming party platter that guests will love picking up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover broccoli cheese balls into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cool before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Freezing
These snack balls freeze beautifully! Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month and can be cooked directly from frozen for quick snack gratification.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, pop the broccoli cheese balls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through. This method restores their crispiness much better than the microwave, though the microwave can work in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture; otherwise, the mixture may become too wet to hold its shape properly.
Are these broccoli cheese balls suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They are kid-friendly and a sneaky way to add more vegetables to their diet since the cheese and crispy exterior make them very appealing to little taste buds.
Can I bake the broccoli cheese balls instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for around 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mild Colby cheese can all be great substitutes—they melt nicely and bring a gooey, cheesy texture that’s perfect for this recipe.
How spicy are the broccoli cheese balls?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle kick, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your heat preference. If you prefer no spice, simply omit them.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe in your culinary arsenal. It’s one of those dishes that brings comfort and health together in such a fun and tasty way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a wholesome snack, these balls deliver satisfaction with every bite. Give them a try, and you might find yourself making them again and again!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Balls: Delicious and Easy Healthy Snack Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make healthy snack that combines finely chopped blanched broccoli with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned and coated with breadcrumbs, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these bite-sized balls make an excellent appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped finely
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
For Cooking and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Wash the broccoli: Thoroughly rinse the broccoli florets under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Chop broccoli: Finely chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for mixing and shaping.
- Blanch broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the chopped broccoli and blanch for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Ice bath: Quickly transfer the blanched broccoli into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process, then drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli with shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.
- Season: Add minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl and mix well to incorporate all flavors evenly.
- Add eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix thoroughly until the mixture is cohesive and sticky enough to form balls.
- Shape balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, pressing tightly so they hold their shape.
- Prepare for frying: Place the shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ready to be cooked.
- Heat oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Fry balls: Carefully add the broccoli cheese balls to the skillet without overcrowding, allowing room to turn.
- Cook evenly: Fry each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning gently with tongs to avoid breaking.
- Drain excess oil: Transfer the cooked balls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Garnish: Arrange the broccoli cheese balls on a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve warm with your choice of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness, but regular breadcrumbs will also work.
- Make sure to pat the broccoli dry thoroughly after blanching to prevent soggy balls.
- You can omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
- These balls are best served immediately while hot and crispy but can be reheated in an air fryer or oven for a quick snack later.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
