Description
There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, cheesy snack that’s secretly packed with nutrients. Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls combine the goodness of broccoli with gooey cheddar and a golden crust, all without the need for deep frying. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a wholesome snack, or a party favorite.
Ingredients
Broccoli Cheese Balls
- 2 cups cooked and chopped broccoli
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 shallots, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
Garlic Lemon Yogurt Dipping Sauce
- ⅔ cup plain yogurt
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ garlic clove, minced
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked, chopped broccoli, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, shallots, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. - Form the Balls:
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Press firmly and shape into balls. - Place and Spray:
Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray each one with olive oil to promote crispiness. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. - Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the balls are baking, mix plain yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. - Serve:
Allow the balls to cool slightly. Serve warm with the garlic lemon yogurt sauce or your preferred dip such as ranch or marinara.
Notes
Ensure your broccoli is well-drained to avoid soggy balls. You can customize the flavor by using different cheeses like Parmesan or mozzarella, and even make them gluten-free by swapping breadcrumbs for almond flour. These also freeze well perfect for make-ahead snacks or appetizers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 20 balls
- Calories: ~170
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~280mg
- Fat: ~10g
- Saturated Fat: ~4g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~5g
- Trans Fat: ~0g
- Fiber: ~11g
- Protein: ~2g
- Cholesterol: ~75mg
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