Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls — perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!

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🧀 Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed and finely chopped)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating, if desired)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp onion powder (optional)

• Olive oil spray (for baking)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Steam and Chop Broccoli:

   • Steam broccoli until tender (about 5–7 minutes), then finely chop it.

   • Make sure there’s no excess moisture — pat dry with a paper towel if needed.

3. Mix Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder.

   • Mix until everything is well incorporated.

4. Form Balls:

   • Scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls.

   • If desired, roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for a crispier texture.

5. Bake:

   • Place balls on the prepared baking sheet.

   • Lightly spray or brush with olive oil.

   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.

6. Serve:

   • Let cool slightly and serve with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dip.

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🌿 Tips & Variations:

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• Add protein: Mix in some cooked quinoa or finely chopped cooked chicken.

• Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or feta for different flavors.

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