Broccoli Balls
Broccoli Balls are cheesy, savory bites packed with broccoli or spinach, cheese, and herbs, perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they appeal to vegetable lovers and cheese fans alike, making them ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the butter.
- Add drained broccoli or spinach, eggs, stuffing mix, Parmesan cheese, and shredded Cheddar cheese to the butter.
- Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using egg substitutes or low-fat cheese. If you're out of Parmesan, nutritional yeast can provide a similar flavor. Using fresh broccoli instead of frozen will enhance the texture, but you'll need to steam and chop it first. Remember to thoroughly drain the spinach if you choose that option to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
These broccoli balls make a great appetizer or side dish, especially when paired with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. Serve alongside a light salad, such as Apple And Wilted Lettuce Salad, for a balanced meal. They also complement hearty main dishes, making them a versatile addition to any dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the broccoli balls for about 5-7 minutes, until warmed through. They can also be microwaved for a quick reheating option, though they may lose some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Balls contains roughly 2278 calories, with 48g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 174g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (103% of the Daily Value), protein (97% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2106mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these broccoli balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls ahead of time. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a container. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of the stuffing mix?
If you don't have herb-seasoned stuffing mix, you can substitute with breadcrumbs mixed with dried herbs like thyme, oregano, and rosemary. Alternatively, crushed crackers or panko can work in a pinch, just make sure to adjust the seasoning to maintain the flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them small and cook any raw vegetables slightly to ensure they blend well with the broccoli and other ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).