Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls (Vegan) – Crispy, Cheesy & Delicious!

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and completely plant-based! Made with nutrient-rich broccoli, dairy-free cheese, and simple seasonings, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

The best part? They’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthy, guilt-free treat!

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Ingredients for Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

For the Broccoli Cheese Balls:

• 2 cups finely chopped broccoli (steamed & drained)
• ¾ cup dairy-free shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella-style)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor boost)
• ¼ cup finely diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Coating (Optional for Extra Crunch):

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing or spraying)

Garnishing & Dipping:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Vegan ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo for dipping

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or cookie scoop
• Food processor (optional, for finely chopping broccoli)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Flax Egg

1. In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water.
2. Let sit for 5 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.

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2. Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

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3. Make the Broccoli Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, dairy-free cheese, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir in the flax egg and mix until well combined.

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4. Shape the Balls

1. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form 1-inch balls.
2. If desired, roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
3. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

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5. Bake Until Golden & Crispy

1. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

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6. Serve & Enjoy!

1. Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve with vegan ranch, marinara, or spicy mayo for dipping.

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Expert Tips for the Best Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

Chop the broccoli finely – Helps hold the mixture together.
Let the flax egg sit – Ensures proper binding.
Use panko for extra crispiness – Gives the balls a crunchier texture.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not draining the broccoli – Excess moisture can make the balls fall apart.
Skipping the flax egg – It acts as a binder to hold everything together.
Not flipping while baking – Ensures even crisping on all sides.

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Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a side of warm marinara or vegan aioli.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Add to grain bowls for extra flavor and texture.

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How to Store & Make Ahead

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 5 minutes.

Freezing:

• Freeze unbaked balls on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
• Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cook time.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Try different cheeses – Use vegan feta or smoked dairy-free cheese for a unique twist.
• Add a spicy kick – Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

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What to Serve with Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls

• Roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa
• A creamy vegan dip like cashew cheese sauce
• Stuff into pita bread with hummus for a quick sandwich

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I air fry these instead of baking?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.

Can I use an egg instead of flaxseed?

Yes! Replace the flax egg with one regular egg if not making it vegan.

Why are my broccoli balls falling apart?

Make sure to drain excess moisture from the broccoli and press the mixture firmly when shaping.

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Conclusion

These Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are crispy, cheesy, and completely plant-based, making them a healthy and delicious appetizer, snack, or side dish! With simple ingredients and a no-fry method, they’re easy to make, nutritious, and full of flavor.

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more tasty vegan recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 180 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings).

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Serves: 4

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