Name: Broccoli Cheese Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; ½ cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking or frying)

Hey y'all! Whether you're prepping for a party, game day, or just searching for a finger-licking snack, Broccoli Cheese Balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! With crispy golden outsides and gooey, cheesy centers packed with healthy broccoli, they check every box for flavor, crunch, and fun. These bite-sized treats make a fabulous appetizer or even a veggie-packed snack for kids and adults alike. Let's get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Kid-approved: Even picky eaters love these cheesy, crunchy bites.
Perfect for parties: They’re easy to make ahead and ideal for all kinds of gatherings.
Vegetarian-friendly: A delicious way to get more veggies in your day.
Customizable: Mix in your favorite cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.
Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and easy-to-find veggies.

Broccoli Cheese Balls Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets (finely chopped and steamed)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
2 large eggs
2 cloves garlic (minced)
¼ cup green onions (finely chopped)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Vegetable oil (for frying)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Balls: Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Steam the chopped broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool, then squeeze out any excess water using a clean towel. Finely chop if necessary.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, green onions, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian herbs. Mix until thoroughly combined—the mixture should hold together when pressed.

Step 3: Shape the Cheese Balls

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1–1.5-inch balls. Roll each ball in the additional panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy coating.

Step 4: Fry the Broccoli Cheese Balls

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the balls in batches, frying for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. (For a lighter option, bake at 400°F/200°C for 18-20 minutes; flip halfway.)

Notes for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Balls

If your mixture is too wet to shape, add extra panko until it’s firm enough. See more tips on how to make crispy croquettes.
Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; fry in batches for even browning.
Gluten-free? Swap panko for a gluten-free breadcrumb option (see how here).

Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe Variations

Spicy: Add 1 finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to the mix.
Bacon-Lover's: Stir in ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for a savory twist.
Vegan: Use vegan cheeses, egg replacer, and a dairy-free breadcrumb option.

Equipment Needed for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl (for broccoli)
Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet (optional, for baking version)
Heavy-bottom skillet or saucepan
Slotted spoon or tongs
Paper towels

Storage Instructions & Shelf Life for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Store leftover Broccoli Cheese Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 7–9 minutes to restore crispiness. For longer storage, freeze cooked and cooled balls in a single layer; transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a hot oven until heated through.

Serving Ideas & Pairings for Broccoli Cheese Balls

Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or spicy aioli.
Platters: Pair with other appetizers like spinach dip or loaded potato skins for game day spreads.
Salads: Plate over mixed greens for a fun, crunchy salad topping.

Pro Tips for Irresistible Broccoli Cheese Balls

Work with slightly cooled broccoli to avoid excess steam in the mixture—this helps prevent sogginess.
Chill shaped balls in the fridge for 20 minutes before frying for perfect shape and crunch (learn more about home frying).
Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F for a consistent, crispy crust every time.

FAQ: Broccoli Cheese Balls

Can I bake instead of fry Broccoli Cheese Balls?: Yes! Place on a parchment-lined tray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning once, until golden.
Can these be made ahead of time?: Absolutely—shape balls, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then fry or bake when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to chop broccoli for this recipe?: Pulse steamed broccoli in a food processor or chop finely with a knife for even, bite-sized pieces.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Broccoli Cheese Balls