Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or panko or Italian breadcrumbs)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1/4 cup minced onion or shallots (optional)
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, taco seasoning, or favorite seasoning blend
- Pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets in boiling water or the microwave until they become tender. Once cooked, finely chop the broccoli using a knife or pulse it in a food processor to achieve a minced texture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced broccoli, eggs, almond flour, shredded cheese, optional minced onion or shallots, cilantro if using, garlic, seasoning blend, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a uniform mixture.
- Form Balls: Using about one tablespoon of the mixture per ball, scoop and shape into small rounds. Place the formed balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle the balls with oil to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese balls are lightly golden and thoroughly cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy these broccoli cheese balls as a snack, appetizer, or protein-rich side. They pair wonderfully with salads, inside sandwiches, alongside rice, or with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- You can steam broccoli on the stovetop, in the microwave, or using a steaming basket—just ensure it’s tender before mincing.
- For a crispier texture, almond flour is preferred over breadcrumbs to keep it low carb.
- If using panko or Italian breadcrumbs, this recipe will have higher carbs and is less keto-friendly.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack to vary flavors.
- These balls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb