Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

why make this recipe

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy vegetables. They are perfect as snacks, appetizers, or even a side dish. This recipe combines the goodness of broccoli and cheese, making it appealing to both kids and adults. Plus, they are baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option for anyone watching their diet.

how to make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Ingredients:

2 cups (packed) roughly chopped soft cooked broccoli (well drained) (~400g/13 oz raw broccoli) (Note 1)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 eggs
¾ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby or Tasty cheese are my usual)
2 shallots / scallions, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp salt
Black pepper
Olive oil spray
2/3 cup plain yoghurt
Zest of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ garlic clove, minced
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (adjust to taste, depends on fat % of yoghurt used)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 200C/390F (all oven types).
Line a tray with baking/parchment paper. (Note 2)
Place all ingredients (except oil spray) in a bowl. Mix well to combine, mashing up the broccoli as you go (like when you are cooking mince).
Scoop up a heaped tablespoon of the broccoli mixture, then press it firmly together. Flick it out into your hand and form it into a ball. Place it on the tray. Repeat with the remaining mixture – you should make 15 to 18 balls.
Spray the balls with olive oil, then bake for 25 minutes or until the surface is slightly crisp and golden.
Serve with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce – it also goes great with ketchup! To make the sauce, mix the ingredients together and set aside for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

how to serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

You can serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls warm or at room temperature. They make a great appetizer for parties, a healthy snack for kids, or a tasty side dish at dinner. Pair them with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce for a refreshing dip or with ketchup for a classic taste.

how to store Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

To store leftovers, place the cooled Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before freezing to prevent sticking.

tips to make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Make sure to drain the broccoli well after cooking to avoid a soggy mixture.
You can use different types of cheese to change the flavor according to your liking.
Feel free to add herbs or spices to the mixture to give it an extra kick.

variation

If you want to spice things up, you can add cooked and crumbled bacon or chopped spinach to the mixture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

2. How do I know when the broccoli balls are done baking?
They are done when they turn golden brown on the surface and feel slightly crispy to the touch.

3. Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just form the balls and bake them when you’re ready to serve.