Crispy Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Cheddar and Parmesan (Print version)

Golden baked broccoli cheese balls with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, panko, and a tender cheesy center.

# Ingredients:

For the broccoli mixture

01 - 1 large head broccoli, about 1 lb (450 g), cut into florets
02 - 1 cup (115 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1/2 cup (50 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 2 large eggs, beaten
05 - 3/4 cup (45 g) panko breadcrumbs
06 - 2 green onions, finely sliced
07 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika

For the coating

11 - 1/2 cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
12 - 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
13 - Olive oil spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing

To serve

14 - Ranch, marinara, or lemony yogurt dip, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam or boil the broccoli for 4-5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain well and let cool slightly.
02 - Finely chop the cooked broccoli. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove excess water.
03 - In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cheddar, 1/2 cup Parmesan, eggs, 3/4 cup panko, green onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until the mixture holds together when pressed.
04 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture, press each scoop tightly, and roll into about 18 balls.
05 - Mix the coating panko with 2 tablespoons Parmesan in a shallow bowl. Roll each broccoli ball in the coating and place on the baking sheet with space between them.
06 - Spray or lightly brush the balls with olive oil. Bake for 20-24 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crisp on the outside.
07 - Let the balls rest for 3 minutes, then serve warm with ranch, marinara, or lemony yogurt dip.

# Good to know:

01 - Makes about 18 small broccoli cheese balls.
02 - Best served warm while the coating is crisp.
03 - For firmer shaping, chill the formed balls for 10-15 minutes before baking.

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