If you’re looking for a delightful snack or appetizer that combines comfort with a fresh twist, this Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. These crispy, golden balls packed with tender broccoli and melty cheese bring a satisfying bite, while the zesty lemon yoghurt sauce adds just the right amount of brightness to keep each mouthful exciting. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to create this magic. Each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make these bites unforgettable.
- Broccoli (2 cups, cooked and well-drained): The star vegetable, tender and vibrant, providing the base and nutrients.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Adds the perfect crispiness to the outside of the balls without weighing them down.
- Eggs (2): Acts as a binder to hold everything together smoothly.
- Shredded cheese (¾ cup): Use Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty to add richness and gooey texture inside.
- Shallots or scallions (2, finely sliced): Brings a subtle sweetness and fresh bite.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Gives the dish a cozy, aromatic kick.
- Salt (¼ tsp) and Black pepper: Essential seasoning to perfectly balance the flavors.
- Olive oil spray: Helps achieve that irresistible golden crust when baking.
- Plain yoghurt (2/3 cup): Base of the tangy lemon yoghurt sauce that pairs wonderfully with the warm balls.
- Lemon zest (½ lemon) and juice (1 tbsp): Adds a refreshing citrus sparkle to the sauce.
- Garlic (½ clove, minced for sauce): Subtle background depth for the sauce’s flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tsp) for sauce: Smooths out the sauce and adds a luscious mouthfeel.
- Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce): To round off the sauce seasoning perfectly.
How to Make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F), which sets the stage for perfectly crispy, golden cheese balls. While the oven warms up, line a baking tray with parchment paper—this keeps your cheese balls from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss the cooked and well-drained broccoli, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheese, finely sliced shallots or scallions, minced garlic, salt, and pepper together. Be sure to mash the broccoli gently as you mix, similar to how you might break down minced meat for a recipe. This helps to combine the ingredients evenly and creates that satisfying texture you want in each ball.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Scoop out a heaped tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Press it firmly in your hand, then flick it out and roll into a neat ball. Place each one carefully onto the lined baking tray. This recipe should make about 15 to 18 delicious balls, each promising a bite-sized burst of flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Lightly spray the tops of the broccoli cheese balls with olive oil to encourage a crisp surface. Pop them into the oven to bake for 25 minutes, or until they turn a perfect golden brown and offer a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining tender inside.
Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Yoghurt Sauce
While the balls bake, whisk together the plain yoghurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Let this sauce rest for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully, so that when you serve it, every dip tastes fresh and vibrant.
How to Serve Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of additional lemon zest or finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives makes a gorgeous, flavorful garnish. These bright touches invite the eyes and complement the zing of the lemon yoghurt sauce.
Side Dishes
These cheese balls shine when paired with crisp salads, roasted veggies, or even a warm grain like quinoa or couscous. Their versatility means they fit beautifully into lunch spreads, casual dinners, or even party platters.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the balls skewered with colorful toothpicks alongside small sauce bowls for dipping. They also do well nestled on a bed of leafy greens or served atop your favorite soup for a delightful texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These baked broccoli cheese balls keep their charm even the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When refrigerated, their flavors settle beautifully, making for an even tastier lunch or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover balls before baking by placing them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a quick snack, just bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the cheese balls in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the crispness will soften.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it fully and drain it well before mixing to avoid soggy cheese balls. Squeezing out excess moisture helps keep the texture just right.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar, Colby, or Tasty cheese are fantastic choices for their flavor and melting properties, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses you love for a personal touch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or fish. Just ensure your cheese doesn’t contain animal rennet if you prefer strictly vegetarian cheese.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a safe alternative that maintains the crisp texture.
How long do the cheese balls last after baking?
Stored properly in the fridge, they stay fresh for about 3 days. For best taste and texture, eat them within that timeframe.
Final Thoughts
What’s not to love about these delightfully crispy, cheesy bites bursting with vibrant broccoli and finished off with a fresh, tangy lemon yoghurt sauce? This Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls with Lemon Yoghurt Sauce Recipe has quickly become a favorite, perfect for any occasion where good food and good company come together. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
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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 (serves 3)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls that are crispy on the outside and soft inside, served with a refreshing lemon yoghurt dipping sauce. Perfect as a healthy snack, appetizer, or side dish.
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
- 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 of the broccoli cheese balls.
- Prepare Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment or baking paper to prevent the cheese balls from sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, shredded cheese, finely sliced shallots/scallions, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mash the broccoli as you mix to create a well-combined, slightly chunky mixture similar to cooking mince.
- Shape Balls: Scoop a heaped tablespoon of the mixture, press it firmly, flick it into your hand, and roll it into a ball. Place each ball on the lined baking tray. Repeat until you form about 15 to 18 balls.
- Spray and Bake: Lightly spray the balls with olive oil spray to help them turn golden and crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the exterior is crisp and golden brown.
- Prepare Sauce: While the balls bake, mix the plain yoghurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set the sauce aside for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Remove the broccoli cheese balls from the oven and serve warm with the lemon yoghurt sauce. They also pair well with ketchup if preferred.
Notes
- Ensure broccoli is well drained to prevent soggy balls.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute cheeses, but avoid overly strong cheeses to keep a balanced flavor.
- Lemon yoghurt sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated.
- The recipe yields 15-18 balls, serving approximately 3 people as a snack or appetizer.
