Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy Goodness : Loaded with melty cheese and tender broccoli for a flavor-packed bite.
- Baked, Not Fried : Healthier than traditional fried versions but still crispy and satisfying.
- Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love these fun, bite-sized treats.
- Versatile : Serve as an appetizer, snack, or side dish for any meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 20–24 balls
For the Broccoli Cheese Mixture:
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (steamed and squeezed dry)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 large egg , lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt , to taste
For Coating:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 large egg , beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
- Steam the broccoli florets until tender (about 5–6 minutes ). Let them cool slightly, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Finely chop the broccoli into small pieces.
Step 3: Make the Broccoli Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.