If you’re looking to wow your family and friends with a snack that’s both wholesome and downright delicious, this Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine crispy, cheesy bites of broccoli goodness paired with a tangy, creamy sauce that brightens every mouthful—comfort food meets fresh, vibrant flavor! It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight nibble or a party appetizer that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but absolutely essential to achieve the perfect blend of taste, texture, and color in your Broccoli Cheese Balls. Each element plays a key role—from the softness of the cooked broccoli to the crispiness of panko breadcrumbs and the zingy freshness of the lemon yoghurt sauce.
- Broccoli (2 cups, soft cooked and well drained): Using soft cooked broccoli ensures your balls hold together beautifully without being mushy.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): These add a wonderful crunch and help bind everything firmly.
- Eggs (2): Essential for holding the mixture together as the cheese melts.
- Shredded cheese (¾ cup): Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese work great for a creamy, melty center with a rich flavor.
- Shallots or scallions (2, finely sliced): These add subtle sweetness and a mild oniony kick.
- Garlic (2 cloves minced): Always a must for depth of flavor.
- Salt (¼ tsp) and black pepper: Simple seasoning to make everything pop.
- Olive oil spray: For that golden, crispy finish without extra calories.
- Plain yoghurt (2/3 cup): The base of the lemon yoghurt sauce, creamy and cooling.
- Lemon zest (from half a lemon) and 1 tbsp lemon juice: They lift the sauce with a bright, citrusy crunch.
- Garlic (½ clove minced for the sauce): A gentle hint of garlic works wonders here.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tsp): Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To make the sauce perfectly balanced.
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Tray
Start by heating your oven to a toasty 200°C (or 390°F) ensuring it’s fully preheated for that perfect bake. Line your baking tray with parchment paper, which helps keep those cheese balls from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the soft cooked broccoli, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheese, shallots, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mash the broccoli as you mix, similar to how you’d prepare minced meat. This step is key—it makes the mixture hold together well and creates a delightful texture that isn’t too dense.
Step 3: Shape the Broccoli Cheese Balls
Grab a heaped tablespoon of the mixture, press it firmly, then flick it into your palm and gently roll it into a round ball shape. Place each formed ball onto the prepared tray, making sure to leave a little space between them so they bake evenly. You should end up with about 15 to 18 beautiful broccoli cheese balls.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Lightly spray the tops of your broccoli cheese balls with olive oil spray to encourage a crispy, golden crust. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the surface is slightly crisp and beautifully golden, with the cheese melted inside and that irresistible savory aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Yoghurt Sauce
While the cheese balls are baking, mix together the plain yoghurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this sauce sit for at least 20 minutes so all those bright flavors meld beautifully—this zingy, creamy dip will perfectly complement the warm, cheesy broccoli bites.
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra special, sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top of the cheese balls for a pop of green and fresh herbal notes. A tiny drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the sauce right before serving adds a glossy finish and subtle richness.
Side Dishes
Pair these Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with a crisp green salad or a bowl of roasted sweet potatoes for a wholesome, balanced meal. Roasted carrots or a simple quinoa salad also make fantastic side companions, bringing contrasting textures and flavors to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cheese balls on a wooden board with little ramekins of the lemon yoghurt sauce and a few other dips like spicy ketchup or smoky barbecue sauce. For parties, skewer them on mini cocktail sticks for a fun, finger-food option your guests will love. They also taste wonderful nestled in lettuce wraps or tucked inside warm pita bread for an easy, handheld lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making a great quick snack or addition to lunch boxes.
Freezing
You can freeze these broccoli cheese balls comfortably. Freeze them on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or thawed cheese balls in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely crisp exterior.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing, so your cheese balls don’t become soggy.
What cheese works best in the broccoli cheese balls?
Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese are great options because they melt well and bring lots of flavor. Feel free to experiment with a blend for extra depth.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?
Yes! Swap plain yoghurt with a plant-based yoghurt like coconut or almond for a delicious, dairy-free lemon yoghurt sauce.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko to keep the balls crispy and suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
How long can I leave the lemon yoghurt sauce before serving?
It’s best to let the sauce sit for at least 20 minutes to meld flavors, but it can also be refrigerated for up to a day beforehand for an even brighter taste.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser that brings a healthy twist to snack time without skimping on flavor. It’s easy, satisfying, and feels so much more special than your average appetizer. Give it a try and watch how quickly these cheesy bites disappear—you’ll be adding this one to your go-to recipe list in no time!
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Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 15-18 balls (approx. 3 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer featuring soft cooked broccoli, cheesy goodness, and a crispy golden exterior. Baked till perfection and served with a zesty lemon yoghurt sauce, they make a perfect party treat or a nutritious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Broccoli Cheese Balls
- 2 cups (packed) roughly chopped soft cooked broccoli (well drained) (~400g/13 oz raw broccoli)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar, Colby or Tasty cheese)
- 2 shallots/scallions, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
Lemon Yoghurt Sauce
- 2/3 cup plain yoghurt
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ garlic clove, minced
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F), suitable for all oven types to ensure even baking.
- Prepare Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with baking or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine chopped cooked broccoli, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheese, finely sliced shallots, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well, mashing the broccoli as you mix, similar to preparing ground meat, to create a cohesive mixture.
- Form Balls: Using a heaped tablespoon, scoop the mixture and press it firmly. Flick the mixture into your hand and shape into balls. Place the formed balls on the lined baking tray. Repeat until all mixture is used, making about 15 to 18 balls.
- Spray and Bake: Lightly spray the balls with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the surfaces are golden and slightly crisp.
- Prepare Sauce: While baking, mix together plain yoghurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the baked broccoli cheese balls warm with the lemon yoghurt sauce. They also pair well with ketchup if preferred.
Notes
- Ensure the cooked broccoli is well drained to avoid soggy texture.
- Using different cheeses like Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese will alter the flavor mildly; choose based on preference.
- The lemon yoghurt sauce can be prepared ahead to enhance flavor.
- These can also be served with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Olive oil spray helps to achieve a crispy exterior without deep frying.
