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Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside—these Broccoli Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer. Whether you bake, air fry, or deep fry them, they’re an easy way to sneak in veggies with loads of flavor. Great for parties, meal prep, or picky eaters!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine American, Kid-friendly, Party food
Servings 20 cheese balls (serves 6–8 as an appetizer)
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cheese grater
  • Knife + cutting board
  • Baking sheet + parchment paper (or air fryer)
  • Cookie scoop (optional)
  • Food processor (optional)
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups finely chopped cooked broccoli (fresh or frozen, drained well)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra melt)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • ⅓–½ cup breadcrumbs or panko (plus extra for coating, if baking or air frying)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil for baking/air frying/frying

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare Broccoli:
    Steam or microwave the broccoli until tender but not mushy. Drain and chop finely. Press out excess moisture using a towel or paper towel.
  • 2. Mix Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheeses, egg, seasonings, and enough breadcrumbs to bind. The mixture should be cohesive but not dry.
  • 3. Form Balls:
    Scoop and roll into golf ball-sized rounds (about 1 to 1½ inches). Roll in extra breadcrumbs for extra crunch, if desired. Chill for 10–15 minutes.
  • 4. Choose Cooking Method:
    Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
    Air Fryer: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking once.
    Fryer or Skillet: Deep fry or pan fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown (2–3 mins). Drain on paper towels.
  • 5. Serve:
    Let cool slightly and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Chill uncooked balls for up to 24 hours or freeze for future use.
  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze cooked or raw balls and reheat in oven or air fryer.
  • Vegan version: Use dairy-free cheese + flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
  • Gluten-free: Substitute GF breadcrumbs or almond flour.
  • Low-carb: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Keyword air fryer veggie balls, baked cheesy bites, broccoli cheddar snack, broccoli cheese balls, cheesy vegetable snacks, freezer-friendly snack, healthy broccoli recipe, vegetarian appetizer