Why You’ll Enjoy Crunchy Baked Broccoli Cheese Bites
Crunchy Baked Broccoli Cheese Bites are a delightful way to get more veggies into your diet, and they’re perfect for both kids and adults. These little nuggets are not only crispy and cheesy but also packed with the goodness of broccoli. They make for an excellent snack, appetizer, or even a side dish. Plus, they’re quick and easy to whip up, making them a great choice for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.
Simple Steps to Create Delicious Broccoli Cheese Bites
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 egg
- Olive oil spray
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets and cheese.
- In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the broccoli mixture to the breadcrumb mixture and stir well until combined.
- Crack in the egg and mix until everything is blended.
- Form small bite-sized balls with your hands and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the bites with olive oil to help them get crispy.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Serving Your Crunchy Bites
These Crunchy Baked Broccoli Cheese Bites are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. They can be served as a standalone snack or paired with your favorite dipping sauce. Try them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick!
Storing Leftover Broccoli Bites
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again.
Tips for Perfect Baked Bites
- Make sure the broccoli is finely chopped to ensure even distribution in the mixture.
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer; just make sure it melts well.
- If you want them extra crunchy, add another layer of breadcrumbs after forming the balls.
- Experiment with different spices to suit your taste.
Creative Variations to Try
- Add Protein: Mix in some cooked chicken or turkey for a protein boost.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate some red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
- Herbed Delight: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional information can vary based on the ingredients used, each serving typically contains around:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fat: 7-10g
Serving Ideas for Family Fun
These bites are perfect for family movie nights, birthday parties, or casual get-togethers. Serve them with a variety of sauces and let everyone create their own dipping experience!
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
For a well-rounded meal, pair these bites with a fresh salad or a side of roasted veggies. They also go well with a hearty soup, making for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the broccoli cheese bites?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just shape the balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen broccoli before using it in the recipe to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. Just double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Enjoy making these Crunchy Baked Broccoli Cheese Bites and watch everyone disappear in delight!
Crunchy Baked Broccoli Cheese Bites
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets Finely chopped for even distribution.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) Use any cheese that melts well.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Regular or gluten-free, as preferred.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- as needed spray olive oil For spraying the bites before baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets and cheese.
- In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the broccoli mixture to the breadcrumb mixture and stir well until combined.
- Crack in the egg and mix until everything is blended.
- Form small bite-sized balls with your hands and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the bites with olive oil to help them get crispy.
Baking
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy as a delicious appetizer or snack!
