Crispy Cheesy Broccoli Balls

Broccoli Balls are crispy, cheesy bites made with mashed broccoli, Parmesan, and a gooey cheese-filled center. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish, they’re a fun and flavorful way to get more greens onto the plate—especially for picky eaters and kids. Whether you’re hosting a party or meal-prepping for the week, these savory bites are a guaranteed hit.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, melty inside—cheese lovers rejoice!
• A tasty way to eat more vegetables, even for broccoli skeptics.
• Great for meal prepping or serving at gatherings.
• Made with simple ingredients and quick to assemble.
• Naturally vegetarian and easy to adapt.

What Are Broccoli Balls?

Broccoli balls are delicious bite-sized fritters made by combining steamed broccoli with eggs, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasoning, then forming the mixture into balls with a surprise cube of cheese hidden inside. After a quick chill in the freezer, they’re coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until golden. A classic comfort food with a twist, they resemble Italian croquettes or American cheese-stuffed bites, but with a veggie-forward focus.

Cooking Tips

• Steam, don’t boil: Steaming the broccoli helps preserve nutrients and prevents excess water in the mixture.
• Mash thoroughly: A well-mashed mixture binds better and holds its shape.
• Freeze before frying: This helps the balls stay intact and keeps the cheese from melting out too soon.
• Choose the right cheese: Use a good melting cheese like mozzarella, fontina, or cheddar for the center.
• Shallow fry if needed: You can also shallow fry instead of deep fry for a lighter version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

What cheese works best for the center?

Mozzarella, gouda, cheddar, or even provolone are all great choices—they melt beautifully and offer that gooey center.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before mashing.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for a similar texture.

Can I prep them ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can form and coat the balls, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage.

How to Store Broccoli Balls

Allow the broccoli balls to cool completely after frying. Place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake or air-fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to regain crispiness.

How to Freeze Broccoli Balls

After shaping and breading, place the uncooked broccoli balls on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

How to Make Broccoli Balls

Step 1

Step 1

Cut broccoli into florets and steam for 15 minutes using a bain-marie or steamer basket.

Cut broccoli into florets and steam for 15 minutes using a bain-marie or steamer basket.

Step 2

Step 2

Transfer the steamed broccoli to a bowl and mash well with a fork.

Transfer the steamed broccoli to a bowl and mash well with a fork.

Step 3

Step 3

Mix in the eggs, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.

Mix in the eggs, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.

Step 4

Step 4

Scoop out portions of the mixture with a spoon. Form into balls, pressing a cube of cheese into the center of each.

Scoop out portions of the mixture with a spoon. Form into balls, pressing a cube of cheese into the center of each.

Step 5

Step 5

Place the shaped balls on a tray and freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.

Place the shaped balls on a tray and freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 6

Step 6

Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

Step 7

Step 7

Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry the broccoli balls in batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.

Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry the broccoli balls in batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.

Step 8

Step 8

Let rest on paper towels briefly before serving warm and cheesy.

Let rest on paper towels briefly before serving warm and cheesy.