Ultimate Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls Recipe

Welcome to our detailed guide on preparing Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls, a delightful snack or side dish that perfectly fits into your low-carb, high-fat ketogenic lifestyle. These cheese-filled treats are not only delicious but also easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. Follow along for comprehensive instructions, precise ingredient measurements, nutritional information, and SmartPoints for those following WW (formerly Weight Watchers).

Ingredients:

  • Broccoli Mixture:
    • 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
    • 1/2 cup almond flour
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Coating:
    • 1 cup almond flour
    • 2 large eggs, beaten
    • 1 cup crushed pork rinds (or additional almond flour for coating)
  • Dipping Sauce (optional):
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Steam and Prep Broccoli:
    • Steam the finely chopped broccoli florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare Broccoli Mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
  3. Form Cheese Balls:
    • Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the broccoli mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with the remaining mixture, making approximately 20-24 balls.
  4. Prepare Coating Station:
    • In one shallow bowl, place almond flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place crushed pork rinds (or additional almond flour) for coating.
  5. Coat the Cheese Balls:
    • Roll each broccoli cheese ball in the almond flour first, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the crushed pork rinds or almond flour again until evenly coated. Place back on the baking sheet.
  6. Bake or Air Fry:
    • Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated broccoli cheese balls on the baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
    • Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the coated balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  7. Make the Dipping Sauce (optional):
    • In a small bowl, combine sour cream, chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once cooked, remove the broccoli cheese balls from the oven or air fryer. Serve warm with the optional dipping sauce on the side.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 24g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
    • Dietary Fiber: 6g
    • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 18g

SmartPoints (WW):

  • Each serving of Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls (about 5-6 balls) is approximately 8 SmartPoints, calculated based on the WW system.

Additional Tips:

  • Broccoli Preparation: Ensure the broccoli is finely chopped and well-cooked before mixing to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.
  • Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varying flavors. Cheddar or Gouda can be excellent substitutes for mozzarella or Parmesan.
  • Coating Alternatives: If you prefer a crispier coating, opt for crushed pork rinds instead of additional almond flour. It adds a crunchy texture while keeping the recipe Keto-friendly.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the broccoli mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking or air frying.
  • Freezing: Freeze unbaked broccoli cheese balls in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake or air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

These Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls are a fantastic snack or appetizer that combines the goodness of broccoli with cheesy indulgence, all while staying true to your Keto goals. Whether you enjoy them as a party treat or a satisfying side dish, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone looking for a flavorful, low-carb option. Experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to personalize them to your taste, and enjoy the crunchy, cheesy goodness guilt-free!