Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls (Print Version)

Crispy baked broccoli bites loaded with cheddar and Parmesan cheese - perfect appetizers for any occasion.

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
02 - 1 cup breadcrumbs
03 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
04 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Binding & Seasoning

05 - 2 eggs
06 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
08 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
09 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ For Baking

10 - Cooking spray for greasing the baking sheet

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp (3-5 minutes). Allow to cool, then finely chop.
02 - In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and flour. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
03 - Roll small portions of the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet.
04 - Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
05 - Cool slightly and serve warm with marinara or ranch dip.

# Notes:

01 - These broccoli cheese balls can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
02 - For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.