Here’s a detailed recipe for baked broccoli cheese balls, complete with instructions and tips!
### Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
#### Ingredients:
– **2 cups cooked broccoli**
– (fresh or frozen; if using frozen, thaw and drain well)
– **1 cup shredded cheese**
– (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
– **1/2 cup breadcrumbs**
– (panko for extra crunch or regular)
– **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese**
– **2 large eggs**
– **2 cloves garlic, minced**
– **1/2 teaspoon onion powder**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**
– **1/4 teaspoon black pepper**
– **1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes** (optional, for heat)
– **Olive oil spray or a drizzle of olive oil**
#### Instructions:
1. **Prep the Broccoli**:
– If using fresh broccoli, steam or boil it until tender (about 5-7 minutes). Drain and let it cool slightly, then chop it finely.
– If using frozen broccoli, steam it according to package instructions, drain thoroughly, and chop.
2. **Preheat the Oven**:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. **Combine Ingredients**:
– In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
– Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
4. **Form the Balls**:
– Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
5. **Prepare for Baking**:
– Lightly spray the tops of the broccoli balls with olive oil or drizzle a little olive oil over them. This helps them get crispy in the oven.
6. **Bake**:
– Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You may want to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
7. **Serve**:
– Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, with your choice of dipping sauce (like ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a yogurt dip).
### Tips:
– **Storage**: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
– **Freezing**: You can freeze uncooked balls. Just form them, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
– **Variations**: Add herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor, or mix in cooked quinoa for added texture and protein.
Enjoy your delicious baked broccoli cheese balls! Perfect as a snack or appetizer.