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Broccoli Cheese Balls

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Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, and packed with broccoli goodness. Served with a zesty garlic lemon yogurt sauce, they make the perfect vegetarian snack, appetizer, or light main dish.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 15–18 balls (3–4 servings as main, 6 as appetizer)
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli, soft-cooked and well drained

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 large eggs

1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese)

2 shallots/scallions, finely sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Olive oil spray

Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce:

1 cup plain yogurt

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 390°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, breadcrumbs, eggs, cheese, shallots, garlic, salt, and pepper. Lightly mash broccoli as you mix until well combined.
  3. Scoop heaped tablespoons of the mixture, press firmly, and shape into balls. Arrange on the baking sheet (makes about 15–18 balls).
  4. Spray lightly with olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden and crisp on the outside.
  5. Meanwhile, make the sauce by mixing yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let sit 20 minutes to develop flavor.
  6. Serve broccoli balls warm with yogurt sauce, ketchup, or dip of choice.

Notes

  • Drain broccoli thoroughly to prevent soggy balls.
  • Press mixture firmly when shaping for best results.
  • For gluten-free, use almond meal instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Add mozzarella for gooey cheese centers.
  • Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/broccoli-cheese-balls-2/