Crispy on the outside, perfectly cheesy and tender inside, Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate snack you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for an irresistible appetizer, or just need a comforting bite, this recipe delivers big flavors with every poppable ball. Loaded with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, savory Parmesan, and a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb crust, these little delights will make anyone fall in love with vegetables—all while making your kitchen smell absolutely amazing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Broccoli Cheese Balls are all about balance, and every ingredient here serves a unique purpose in making them irresistibly tasty and snackable. Each component adds flavor, structure, or that craveable crunch you expect from the best party treats!
- Broccoli (2 cups, finely chopped & steamed): The vibrant star of the show, bringing color, nutrition, and a tender bite that holds everything together.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds bold, creamy, and classic cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with broccoli.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Gives a salty, nutty punch and helps bind the filling.
- Seasoned Breadcrumbs (1 cup, divided): Half goes inside for structure, and half transforms into that golden crunchy coating.
- Large Eggs (2): The essential binder that keeps every ball cohesive and moist when bitten into.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brightens the mix with a pop of savory flavor.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle hint of heat, but totally customizable to your taste.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Seasons every bite and brings all the flavors together.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Rounds out the seasoning for a gentle kick.
- Vegetable Oil (for frying): Creates that irresistible crispy exterior.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls
Step 1: Steam and Chop the Broccoli
Start by steaming the broccoli until it’s tender enough to mash with a fork—this usually takes around 5 minutes. Once it’s cooked, let it cool briefly and then finely chop it. You want the broccoli pieces small, so they blend seamlessly into the filling. This is the secret to Broccoli Cheese Balls with a uniform, delightful texture throughout.
Step 2: Mix Up the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, add your chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, ½ cup of the breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, red pepper flakes if you like extra zing, salt, and black pepper. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands (the best kitchen tool!) to thoroughly combine until everything is evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together easily when pressed—if it’s a bit loose, add an extra sprinkle of breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Shape Into Balls
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them between your hands to form compact balls. Gentle pressure helps these hold their shape and fry up beautifully. Line them up on a plate or tray as you go—you should get about 20 Broccoli Cheese Balls, give or take!
Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Pour your remaining ½ cup of breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl. Roll each broccoli ball to get an even coating all over. That layer will become your crunchy golden armor once they hit the hot oil! Make sure they’re fully covered but not overburdened—you want the cheese to shine through.
Step 5: Fry Until Crispy and Golden
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high. Once the oil reaches 350°F (you can check with a thermometer or drop in a bread crumb to see if it sizzles), carefully slide in a few balls at a time. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, turning gently until all sides are crisp and golden brown—usually 2 to 3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain Broccoli Cheese Balls on a plate lined with paper towels.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Balls
Garnishes
Freshness and color go a long way! Sprinkle your Broccoli Cheese Balls with a dusting of chopped parsley or chives for a pop of green that sets off the golden hue. A grating of extra Parmesan just before serving takes the cheesy goodness over the top!
Side Dishes
For a relaxed spread, serve alongside tangy marinara sauce, cool ranch, or a spicy aioli for dipping. They also fit right in with a big platter of roasted veggies, a crisp Caesar or green salad, or even a cozy bowl of tomato soup for dipping and dunking.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling festive, skewer Broccoli Cheese Balls with toothpicks and serve on a party board with an assortment of sauces. Or tuck them into slider buns with lettuce and a dollop of sauce for a clever vegetarian sandwich. No matter how you share them, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Let them cool completely before storing so they maintain their integrity and don’t become soggy.
Freezing
To stock your freezer for quick snacks, arrange the formed (but not yet fried) balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months, ready to fry straight from frozen (just add a minute or two to the cook time) or bake until hot and crispy.
Reheating
The best way to bring Broccoli Cheese Balls back to life is in a hot oven (about 375°F) for 10-12 minutes, or in an air fryer for maximum crunch. Microwaving can work in a pinch but may soften the coating, so only choose that for desperation snack attacks!
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! While frying gives the crispiest result, baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are still seriously satisfying. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray or brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
You sure can. Thaw it thoroughly, drain off excess liquid, and chop finely. Just make sure it’s as dry as possible before mixing—otherwise, the filling may be too soft and not hold together as well.
What’s the best cheese to substitute for cheddar?
If you’re after a milder flavor or experimenting, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese are all delicious alternatives. For a little more kick, try pepper jack or even smoked gouda for depth and complexity.
How do I keep them from falling apart?
If your mixture feels too crumbly, add an extra egg or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs until it holds together easily when shaped. Really pack the mixture tightly when rolling the balls and make sure your oil is hot enough before frying so they set quickly.
Are Broccoli Cheese Balls vegetarian?
They are! This recipe uses only broccoli, cheese, eggs, and seasonings, making them perfect for vegetarians. Just double-check your cheese is vegetarian-friendly if needed, since some Parmesan may contain animal rennet.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dig into these Broccoli Cheese Balls—the kind of snack that brings a smile to any table. They’re crunchy, savory, and so much fun to eat and share. Go ahead and give them a try; they’re bound to become your new go-to appetizer (and maybe even a sneaky way to get everyone to love their veggies)!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls (about 4 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy broccoli cheese balls are a delicious appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties or gatherings. Packed with flavor from sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, these fried balls are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Broccoli Cheese Balls:
- 2 cups finely chopped steamed broccoli
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (divided)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli until tender, finely chop, and let cool.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, ½ cup breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions, roll into balls, and coat with remaining breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil in a skillet, fry balls in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can use mozzarella for a milder taste or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- To prepare ahead, refrigerate formed balls for up to 24 hours before frying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 balls
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
