Broccoli Cheese Balls: Low Carb Keto Recipe
These Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious, low-carb keto-friendly snack or appetizer perfect for any occasion. Made with tender steamed broccoli, melted cheese, and almond flour, they are baked to a golden perfection with a flavorful kick from Cajun seasoning. They’re great served on salads, sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own with a dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or panko or Italian breadcrumbs)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1/4 cup minced onion or shallots (optional)
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or taco seasoning or your favorite seasoning blend)
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until tender by boiling them briefly in water or microwaving them until soft. Once cooked, chop the broccoli finely using a knife or food processor to ensure the right consistency for the balls.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, eggs, almond flour, shredded cheese, optional minced onions or shallots, cilantro if using, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Form Balls and Bake: Take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the broccoli balls evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle the balls with oil to help them brown. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the broccoli cheese balls are lightly golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy these delicious broccoli cheese balls served on a salad, in a sandwich, alongside rice, or as a standalone appetizer or snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Steaming broccoli in the microwave is a quick alternative to boiling; simply place broccoli in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and microwave for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- You can substitute almond flour with panko or Italian breadcrumbs if not strictly keto, but almond flour keeps the recipe low carb.
- Try different cheese varieties for varied flavor profiles, such as sharp cheddar for a bold taste or mozzarella for milder meltiness.
- If you prefer extra crispy bites, you can broil the balls for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking but watch closely to avoid burning.
- These balls can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
