Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy snack that combines the goodness of broccoli with the savory flavors of cheese and garlic. These bite-sized treats are perfect for an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. Paired with a refreshing Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce, they make for a satisfying and nutritious option. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these delightful broccoli cheese balls step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:
- 2 cups cooked broccoli, finely chopped (about 400g/13 oz raw broccoli)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
For the Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce:
- 2/3 cup plain yogurt
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 garlic clove, minced
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Cook Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli until tender. Drain well and finely chop to get about 2 cups of cooked broccoli.
Step 2: Make the Broccoli Cheese Balls Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheese, sliced green onions, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Form Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Bake the Broccoli Cheese Balls
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the broccoli cheese balls with olive oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Chill: Chill the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serving
- Serve: Serve the baked broccoli cheese balls hot, with the garlic lemon yogurt sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Broccoli: Make sure the broccoli is well-drained and finely chopped to ensure the balls hold together properly.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese. A combination of Cheddar and mozzarella works great for a balanced flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: You can use regular, whole wheat, or panko breadcrumbs based on your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the broccoli cheese balls mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Form the balls and bake them just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover broccoli cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze these? A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked broccoli cheese balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of these broccoli cheese balls, follow these modifications:
- Breadcrumbs: Substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Sauce: Ensure the yogurt sauce is made with full-fat Greek yogurt for a higher fat content.
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a tasty and nutritious option that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, flavorful interior, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, homemade snack that’s both healthy and satisfying!
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