Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil or olive oil (for frying or baking)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly before finely chopping or pulsing them in a food processor to create small pieces. Make sure there is no excess water, as it can affect the texture of the cheese balls.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be slightly thick and sticky.
- Form the Cheese Balls:
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter). If the mixture is too sticky to handle, lightly wet your hands with water or oil to make shaping easier.
- Cook the Cheese Balls:
- To Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- To Fry: Heat the coconut oil or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cheese balls in batches, frying them for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Place the cooked cheese balls on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, allow the cheese balls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with a dipping sauce like ranch, sour cream, or marinara (for extra flavor!).
Tips:
- Texture Tip: For a firmer texture, you can chill the broccoli cheese ball mixture in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before forming and cooking.
- Variations: Add cooked bacon bits or sausage crumbles to the mixture for a meaty twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
- Make Ahead: These cheese balls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them before cooking, and simply bake or fry them when you’re ready to serve.
These Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls are a delicious, cheesy, low-carb snack or side dish that will satisfy your cravings without ruining your diet. They’re perfect for meal prepping or as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer! 🧀🥦
