Crispy, golden, and loaded with cheesy goodness, these Oven Baked Cheesy Broccoli Balls are a delightful way to transform simple ingredients into a crave-worthy appetizer or snack. Featuring blanched and finely chopped broccoli florets, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan cheese mixed with panko breadcrumbs and eggs for a perfectly moist yet crunchy texture, this recipe is a wholesome crowd-pleaser. Seasoned with garlic and onion powder for extra flavor and baked to perfection, these bite-sized treats are a healthier alternative to fried snacks, thanks to the light mist of olive oil spray and oven-baking method. Ready in under 45 minutes, theyβre perfect for weeknight snacking, party platters, or even a fun way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters. Serve them warm with a side of marinara or ranch for dipping and watch them disappear in no time!
Preheat your oven to 190Β°C (375Β°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process.
Pat the broccoli dry with a clean kitchen towel and finely chop it into small pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and the eggs.
Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a ball using your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture to form evenly sized balls.
Place the broccoli balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart.
Lightly spray the broccoli balls with olive oil to promote even browning.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm on their own or with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Calories |
1225 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 60.5 g | 78% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.5 g | 172% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 529 mg | 176% | |
| Sodium | 3584 mg | 156% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 101.8 g | 37% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.7 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.1 g | ||
| Protein | 83.3 g | 167% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 1516 mg | 117% | |
| Iron | 9.1 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 201 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.