Broccoli Cheese Balls

Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious way to enjoy your veggies in a fun, comforting, and cheesy form. These golden bites are crisp on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with broccoli flavor. Perfect as a vegetarian main dish, snack, or party appetizer, they’re served best with a zesty garlic lemon yogurt sauce that balances the richness beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These broccoli cheese balls don’t just taste amazing—they’re also healthier since they’re baked, not fried. They’re simple to prepare, freezer-friendly, and versatile enough to serve as a light meal or finger food. With plenty of cheese and garlic, even picky eaters will love them. The yogurt sauce adds brightness, but they’re equally delicious with ketchup or your favorite dip.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Broccoli Cheese Balls

• broccoli, soft-cooked and well drained

• panko breadcrumbs

• eggs

• shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese)

• shallots/scallions, finely sliced

• garlic, minced

• salt

• black pepper

• olive oil spray

Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce

• plain yogurt

• lemon zest

• lemon juice

• garlic, minced

• extra virgin olive oil

• salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, combine broccoli, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheese, shallots, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash the broccoli slightly as you mix until well combined.

3. Scoop up heaped tablespoons of the mixture, press firmly, and shape into balls. Place on the baking tray. Repeat with the remaining mixture (makes about 15–18 balls).

4. Spray lightly with olive oil. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden and slightly crisp on the outside.

5. For the sauce: Mix yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let sit for at least 20 minutes to develop flavor.

6. Serve the broccoli balls warm with the yogurt sauce (or ketchup if you prefer).

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 as a main dish or 6 as an appetizer.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-free: Swap breadcrumbs with almond meal for a low-carb version.

• Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella for gooey centers.

• Spicy kick: Mix in red chili flakes or finely diced jalapeños.

• Different veggies: Combine broccoli with cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini.

• Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep cooled balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for a quick option.
Freezing: Freeze after baking. Thaw and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just cook until soft, drain very well, and mash slightly before mixing.

How do I stop the balls from falling apart?

Make sure the broccoli is well drained and press the mixture firmly when shaping.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, shape the balls and refrigerate uncooked for up to 24 hours before baking.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar gives the strongest flavor, but Colby, mozzarella, or a blend works well too.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, shallow-fry in oil until golden brown for a crispier finish.

Are these suitable for kids?

Absolutely—they’re a fun way to sneak in vegetables. Reduce garlic or spices for little ones.

Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use a vegan cheese substitute, plant-based yogurt for the sauce, and flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

What dips go well with them besides yogurt sauce?

Try ranch dressing, marinara sauce, aioli, or honey mustard.

Do they stay crispy after reheating?

They’re crispiest fresh, but reheating in the oven or air fryer restores crunch.

Can I serve them cold?

They’re best warm, but can also be eaten cold as part of a snack platter.

Conclusion

Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a versatile, healthy, and crowd-pleasing recipe that transforms simple broccoli into a deliciously cheesy bite. With a crisp golden crust and creamy interior, they’re perfect for parties, family dinners, or even meal prep. Pair them with the refreshing garlic lemon yogurt sauce for a dish that’s as nutritious as it is irresistible.

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