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
Scale
- 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