Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Key Ingredients:

Here’s what each ingredient brings to the recipe and some tips for the best flavor and texture.

Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works here, as long as it’s steamed to a tender-crisp texture. Finely chopped broccoli blends well with the other ingredients and adds a bright green color.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients and add texture. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a creamy, tangy flavor. Sharp cheddar works best for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty note and enhances the crispy exterior.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping hold the broccoli and cheese mixture together during baking.
All-Purpose Flour: Flour adds structure to the balls, keeping them from falling apart.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These seasonings add savory depth to complement the broccoli and cheese.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the flavor of the entire dish.
Cooking Spray: Lightly greasing the baking sheet ensures the cheese balls don’t stick and helps them get crispy.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the cheese balls.

Steam the Broccoli: Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. This maintains the broccoli’s bright green color and nutrients.
Tip: Use a steamer basket or microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water. If microwaving, cover with a lid or plastic wrap to trap the steam.

Cool and Chop: Allow the steamed broccoli to cool for a few minutes, then finely chop to help it blend well with the other ingredients.