Attention all keto enthusiasts and cheese lovers! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these irresistible Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls. These savory, golden-brown bites are not just a treat for your palate, but also a perfect way to sneak more veggies into your diet while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. Crispy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside, these little spheres of deliciousness are about to become your new favorite go-to snack or party appetizer. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds)!
Ingredients (Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls)
– 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup crushed pork rinds (for coating)
– Olive oil or avocado oil spray (for baking)
Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Food processor or sharp knife for chopping broccoli
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Small bowl (for beating eggs)
– Shallow dish (for coating mixture)
– Cookie scoop or tablespoon
– Cooking thermometer (optional)
Preparation Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Begin by finely chopping the broccoli florets. You can use a food processor for this step to save time, or chop by hand for more control over the texture. The pieces should be small enough to hold together in a ball but not so fine that they become mushy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the beaten eggs to the broccoli mixture and stir until everything is well combined and starts to stick together.
5. Place the crushed pork rinds in a shallow dish. If your pork rinds aren’t fine enough, you can pulse them in a food processor to get a breadcrumb-like consistency.
6. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out portions of the broccoli mixture and shape them into balls approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should be able to make about 20-24 balls, depending on their size.
7. Roll each ball in the crushed pork rinds, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides. The pork rinds will give the balls a crispy exterior when baked.
8. Arrange the coated broccoli cheese balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball to allow for even cooking.
9. Lightly spray the balls with olive oil or avocado oil spray. This will help them achieve a golden-brown color and enhance the crispiness.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside. For extra crispiness, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch them closely to prevent burning.
11. Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the balls reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety, especially since they contain eggs and cheese.
12. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheese inside will be very hot, so be cautious when taking your first bite!
Nutritional Information (approximate, per ball, assuming 24 balls are made)
– Calories: 75
– Total Fat: 6g
– Saturated Fat: 2.5g
– Cholesterol: 25mg
– Sodium: 150mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 2g
– Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
– Net Carbs: 1.5g
– Protein: 5g
Notes and Tips
1. Cheese selection: While this recipe calls for cheddar cheese, feel free to experiment with other low-carb cheese options like mozzarella, Gouda, or a cheese blend for varied flavors.
2. Broccoli preparation: Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the chopped broccoli to prevent the balls from becoming too wet and falling apart during baking.
3. Almond flour substitute: If you have a nut allergy, you can replace almond flour with coconut flour, but use only 1/4 cup as coconut flour is more absorbent.
4. Binding alternatives: If you find the mixture isn’t holding together well, you can add a tablespoon of psyllium husk or xanthan gum to improve binding.
5. Make-ahead option: You can prepare the balls up to the coating stage and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for meal prep or when preparing for a party.
6. Freezing: These broccoli cheese balls freeze well. After baking and cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for storage up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
7. Serving suggestions: These keto broccoli cheese balls are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a low-carb dipping sauce like ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
8. Vegetarian option: To make these vegetarian-friendly, replace the pork rind coating with a mixture of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Spice it up: Feel free to add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicier version.
10. Size matters: Keep the balls uniform in size to ensure even cooking. If you make larger balls, you may need to increase the baking time.
11. Air fryer alternative: If you have an air fryer, you can cook these balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.
12. Leftover broccoli stems: Don’t waste the broccoli stems! Peel and chop them finely to use in the mixture, adding more fiber and reducing food waste.
These Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls are not just a tasty treat; they’re a versatile addition to your low-carb repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a side dish to complement your main course, these little bites have got you covered. The combination of nutrient-rich broccoli and satisfying cheese makes them a guilt-free indulgence that aligns perfectly with your keto lifestyle.
Remember, the key to success with this recipe is in the preparation. Taking the time to finely chop the broccoli and ensuring a good mix of ingredients will result in balls that hold together well and have a delightful texture. The crispy pork rind coating adds a delicious crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe. It’s a fantastic base that you can adapt to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding different herbs like fresh basil or thyme, or experiment with various cheese combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
For those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by, having a batch of these in your freezer can be a real lifesaver. They reheat beautifully and taste just as good as freshly made. Plus, they’re a great way to get kids (and picky adults) to eat more vegetables without even realizing it.
In conclusion, these Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls are more than just a recipe; they’re a testament to how delicious and satisfying low-carb eating can be. They prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or comfort to stick to your dietary goals. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a keto-friendly snack that’s bound to become a staple in your culinary arsenal. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!
Try this amazing recipe: Creamy Keto Mushroom and Spinach Skillet