Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls
Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are golden and crispy snacks filled with cheesy flavor and packed with vegetables, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups roughly chopped soft cooked broccoli (well drained) (~400g/13 oz raw broccoli)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 pieces eggs
- ¾ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby or Tasty)
- 2 pieces shallots / scallions, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Ingredients
- ⅔ cup plain yoghurt
- ½ piece zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ clove garlic, minced
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 200C/390F.
- Line a tray with baking or parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, place all ingredients (except oil spray). Mix well to combine, mashing up the broccoli as you mix.
- Scoop out a heaped tablespoon of the mixture and press it firmly together. Roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the ball onto the prepared tray. Repeat with the remaining mixture, which should yield 15 to 18 balls.
- Spray the balls lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until they are crisp and golden on the surface.
Making the Sauce
- Mix the yoghurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic together. Set aside for at least 20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Notes
Drain the cooked broccoli well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture. Use fresh breadcrumbs for a softer texture inside the balls. Adjust seasoning according to your taste. Feel free to add herbs or spices that you enjoy.