If you’re on the hunt for a delightful snack that’s both healthy and indulgent, look no further than this Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe! These bite-sized treats are packed with vibrant broccoli and gooey cheese, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a quick snack, or adding them to your meal prep, these cheesy bites are sure to impress.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, cheesy center filled with tender bits of broccoli. The Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies into your diet. Plus, they can be made in the air fryer for a healthier twist, ensuring you get all the flavor without the extra oil!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and cheese, these bites are a nutritious choice.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer, snack, or side dish; perfect for any occasion.
- Air Fryer Friendly: Cook them in an air fryer for a crispy finish without the guilt.
Ingredients List
To create your Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Steam Broccoli: In a steamer basket, steam the chopped broccoli until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Chop Finely: Once cooled, chop the broccoli into smaller pieces to ensure even mixing.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll them in additional breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Step 3: Air Fry the Cheese Balls
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the broccoli cheese balls in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
- Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool and Enjoy: Remove the broccoli cheese balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Variations & Substitutions
- Cheese Options: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add Spices: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these bites suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just thaw and drain it well before chopping and mixing with the other ingredients.
What can I serve with these broccoli cheese balls?
These bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the broccoli cheese balls and refrigerate them before cooking. Just air fry or bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Conclusion
Indulge in the deliciousness of this Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe! This simple recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of broccoli and cheese in a fun, bite-sized form. Perfect for snacking, appetizers, or meal prep, these cheesy bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
We’d love to hear how your Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls turn out! Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know if you tried any variations. For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit https://eldralys.com/ and keep exploring the joys of cooking! Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite of your Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe!
Print
Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe: A Deliciously Cheesy Snack
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 20 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, warm and cheesy on the inside—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or healthy side dish. Cook them in the air fryer for a delicious, guilt-free treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
Instructions
- Steam Broccoli: Steam chopped broccoli in a steamer basket for 3–5 minutes until tender. Let cool and finely chop.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form Balls: Shape mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray basket with cooking spray. Place balls in a single layer and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack. Add paprika or cayenne for a kick. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF version. Bake instead at 400°F for 15–20 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 balls
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Leave a Reply