Oven-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Balls

Fresh steamed broccoli can be used in place of the frozen, please make certain to hand-squeeze out excess moisture in the broccoli before using in this recipe, These make a wonderful side dish to any meal. Yield amount is for 1-inch balls only and is only approximate, you can shape into size desired. Plan ahead the mixture needs to chill for 4 hours before shaping into balls.

• Ready In: 4 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 32

Ingredients

• 1 (10 ounce) package  chopped frozen broccoli
• 1 (6 ounce) package  seasoned stuffing mix (use chicken or wild rice flavored)
• 1⁄2 cup  grated parmesan cheese
• 1⁄2 cup  finely shredded cheddar cheese
• 1  small onion, finely chopped
• 6  small eggs, beaten (or use 4 large)
• 3⁄4 cup butter, melted
• 1  teaspoon seasoning salt (or to taste)
• 1⁄2-1  teaspoon garlic powder
• 1  pinch cayenne pepper (optional or to taste)
•  black pepper
•  finely grated cheddar cheese (for topping balls or use mozzarella cheese) (optional)

Directions

1. Place the frozen broccoli in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on HIGH for 5-6 minutes; cool and squeeze out any excess moisture with hands, place in a large bowl.
2. Add in stuffing mix, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, onion, beaten eggs, seasoned salt, garlic powder, black pepper and cayenne to taste (if using) mix until combined adjusting seasoned salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 4 or more hours or until all the moisture is absorbed and the mixture is completely cold.
4. Shape into 1 or 1-1/2-inch balls, then place onto greased baking sheet.
5. Set oven to 325.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes for 1-inch balls (bake a little longer for 1-1/2-inch balls) or until browned.
7. If desired immediately sprinkle finely grated cheddar cheese on top.