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Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls

By Dr. Eric Berg DC

11/04/2024

Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls

keto-broccoli-cheddar-balls

Total Time: 35 minutes

Serves: 12

Per serving: 85 calories, 5.6 g protein, 5 g carbohydrates, 5.3 g fat

Ingredients

1 head of broccoli broken into florets

2 eggs

½ cup almond flour

¼ cup onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 cup mozzarella, shredded

1 tsp Cajun seasoning

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F / 204 degrees C.

  2. Steam broccoli by placing florets in steamer basket over boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes until tender.

  3. Remove from heat, then finely chop broccoli in food processor.

  4. In large bowl, combine chopped broccoli with eggs, almond flour, onion, garlic, mozzarella, and Cajun seasoning.

  5. Using hands, form broccoli cheese mixture into 12 evenly-sized balls and place on lined baking sheet.

  6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.

  7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.


Recipe tips:

  • You can use fresh or frozen broccoli for this recipe, but ensure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli beforehand to avoid soggy Broccoli Cheese Balls. 

  • Shredded cheddar cheese can be used instead of mozzarella to create delicious keto-friendly broccoli cheddar bites.

  • Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the broccoli mixture for a spicier kick.


Looking for a fun, flavorful appetizer that won't break ketosis? These Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls are packed with gooey melted cheese and Cajun spice for a tasty twist on traditional cheese balls.


In just 35 minutes, you can whip up these crispy morsels, each containing only five grams of carbohydrates—perfect for satisfying cravings without raising blood sugar levels.


Why you’ll love this keto-friendly recipe 


You’ll enjoy these Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls because they’re 100 percent keto-approved and made with simple, wholesome ingredients.


Broccoli, the star of the show, is packed with vitamins C and K, making it a nutritious and tasty way to enjoy green vegetables without having to rely on traditional salads.


Furthermore, a study published in Antibiotics found that broccoli contains potent bioactive compounds, including glucosinolates, sulforaphane, and indole-3-carbinol.


These health-promoting substances have been linked to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects, making broccoli a valuable addition to a Healthy Keto® diet.


One more reason to love this recipe is the inclusion of mozzarella cheese as it delivers an irresistible flavor while supplying healthy fats to maintain ketosis.


Eggs act as a binding agent and are a great source of protein. They help you feel satisfied longer, which can curb hunger and support weight management.


"Eggs provide vital nutrients, including B vitamins and vitamin D, along with choline, iodine, and high-quality protein," explains Dr. Berg. "They're also no longer considered a risk factor for high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease, making them an excellent keto-friendly ingredient."


Another key ingredient in this recipe is garlic, which adds a bold flavor and contains various antioxidants known for their immune-enhancing properties.


What’s more, the touch of Cajun seasoning gives these delectable morsels a slightly spicy kick.


Besides the taste and nutritional benefits, these Broccoli Cheese Balls are easy to make and can be customized with different ingredients. For example, you can substitute mozzarella with your preferred choices, such as Parmesan or cheddar cheese. 


Additionally, these baked Broccoli Cheese Balls are gluten-free, making them the perfect dish for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.


Spinach artichoke dip

What to serve with Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls


These Broccoli Cheese Bites make a delightful addition to any meal, serving as a versatile appetizer or a flavorful side dish. 


Here are a few recipe ideas to pair with Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls.  


Spinach Artichoke Dip

If you love Spinach Artichoke Dip but want to avoid the carb-heavy chips, these cheesy Broccoli Balls are the ideal substitute.


These bite-sized treats complement the dip's tangy profile, making them a dynamic duo fit for being served at any gathering.


Blue Cheese Dip

With its bold and zesty flavor, Blue Cheese Dip is a perfect accompaniment for these crispy Broccoli Balls.


The dip's boldness enhances the savory crunch of the broccoli, creating a delightful balance that elevates every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a cozy night, this pairing is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds.


Keto Roasted Jalapeño Hummus

For a more unconventional pairing, dip these Broccoli Cheese Balls into Keto Roasted Jalapeño Hummus.


With a spicy kick and smooth texture, the hummus pairs beautifully with the crunchy Broccoli Bites, resulting in a truly satisfying culinary experience.



Keto French Herbed Pork Chops with Brie

Serve these low-carb Broccoli Balls alongside tender, herb-infused Keto French Pork Chops for a comforting yet elegant meal.


Enjoy creamy brie as it melts over the pork chops, creating a pleasant contrast to the decadent flavor profile and slightly crunchy texture of these Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls.


Keto Everything Lamb Chops

The savory seasoning of these Keto Everything Lamb Chops pairs beautifully with the luscious Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls, resulting in a harmonious blend of bold, meaty flavors and cheesy goodness.


Together, they create a well-rounded dish loaded with flavor and essential nutrients that promote fat-burning and overall health. 


Keto Garlic Lemon Halibut

Pair the light, zesty flavors of Garlic Lemon Halibut with the crunchy texture of Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls for a decadent meal option.


The addition of lemon juice and herbs makes this combination refreshingly vibrant, enhancing the halibut's delicate taste while complementing the savory richness of the broccoli bites. 


Keto Parmesan Mozzarella-Crusted Rib Eye Steak

To elevate your dining experience, serve these Broccoli Cheese Balls with Keto Parmesan Mozzarella-Crusted Rib Eye Steak.


The steak's charred crust complements the cheesy goodness of the Broccoli Balls, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Each bite of the succulent, juicy steak paired with the crispy, cheesy Broccoli Balls delivers a rich and satisfying culinary experience. 


Woman opening oven

Storing and reheating tips


These Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.


To reheat, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and place the Broccoli Cheese Balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.


You can also place them in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for 3 to 4 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for a quick and easy way to restore their crispy texture and delicious flavor.


To preserve their texture, avoid using the microwave, as this can make the Broccoli Cheese Balls soggy.


Broccoli cheddar soup

More keto-friendly broccoli recipes


If you love broccoli and want to incorporate more of this nutritious cruciferous vegetable into your keto meal plan, there are many low-carb recipes you can explore.


Here are a few keto-friendly broccoli recipes:

  • Keto Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Savor a velvety soup where melted cheddar combines beautifully with tender broccoli, resulting in a hearty dish perfect for chilly days.

  • Keto Beef and Broccoli: Succulent strips of beef, sautéed to perfection, pair seamlessly with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce, creating a flavorful combination that's simply irresistible.

  • Keto Broccoli Cheddar Casserole: This comforting casserole features a silky blend of cheddar and cream cheese and bright broccoli florets, making it a pleasant side dish for any occasion.

  • Keto Cheese & Broccoli Salad: Fresh broccoli is paired with crispy bacon, crunchy sunflower seeds, and velvety dressing, offering a vibrant salad that's both nutritious and satisfying.

  • Keto Flank Steak with Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin: Juicy flank steak is served alongside a decadent gratin of cauliflower and broccoli, topped with a luscious sauce that elevates this meal to gourmet status.

  • Keto Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad with Bacon: This vibrant salad blends steamed broccoli and cauliflower with savory bacon, all tossed in a tangy dressing.


Broccoli cheese balls

Final thoughts


This Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls recipe is packed with keto-friendly and nutrient-dense ingredients, including broccoli, almond flour, mozzarella cheese, and eggs.


Serve this dish alongside other low-carb option such as Keto Roasted Jalapeño Hummus, Keto French Herbed Pork Chops with Brie, or Keto Everything Lamb Chops for a well-rounded and satisfying meal combo. 



FAQ


1. How many carbs are in Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls?

This recipe contains only five grams of carbs per serving, making it an ideal option for those following a Healthy Keto® diet.


2. Are Keto Broccoli Cheese Balls gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free due to the use of almond flour instead of wheat flour.


3. Is broccoli one of the healthiest vegetables?

Yes, broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables due to its rich nutrient profile. It's loaded with vitamins C and K, along with fiber, folate, and various antioxidants that help support overall health and lower the risk of various health issues. 


Additionally, broccoli supports heart health, aids digestion, and has been linked to anticancer effects. 


4. Is putting cheese on broccoli healthy?

Yes, adding cheese to broccoli can be a healthy choice if you use high-quality organic cheese instead of highly processed American cheese, often packed with added sugars and unhealthy additives. 



Source


1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37508253/