Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites Recipe
These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites are the perfect fusion of health and flavor. Combining nutrient-rich broccoli with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, these savory bites are great as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish. They’re low in carbs, making them an ideal addition to any low-carb or keto-friendly meal plan. Best of all, they’re baked to perfection, offering a crunchy, cheesy exterior with a tender, flavorful center. Let’s dive into this recipe and explore how you can make these delicious bites right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
3 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, preferably sharp or extra-sharp for more flavor
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated for a smoother texture
2 large eggs, beaten to help bind the mixture
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, for a subtle kick of flavor
1/2 teaspoon onion powder, to enhance the savory notes
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground for extra spice
Cooking spray or oil, for baking the bites to a golden crisp
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing a baking sheet. You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or lightly grease it with cooking spray or a brush of oil to prevent sticking.
Next, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Once the water is ready, carefully add the finely chopped broccoli florets. Blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes, just until tender but still bright green. Overcooking will make the broccoli mushy, so keep an eye on it! After blanching, drain the broccoli thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will make it difficult for the bites to crisp up in the oven, so take your time drying them.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched and dried broccoli florets with the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The eggs will act as a binder, holding the mixture together, while the cheeses will melt and create that irresistible crispy outer layer.
Step 3: Shape the Bites
Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape your broccoli cheese bites. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape. If it feels too wet, you can add a bit more Parmesan to absorb excess moisture. Repeat this process until all of the mixture has been shaped into bite-sized balls.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the broccoli cheese balls onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly to allow air to circulate and help them crisp up during baking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or brush them with a small amount of oil to encourage browning.
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside. For an extra crispy finish, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking—just be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the broccoli cheese bites are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. These bites are best enjoyed warm, with your favorite dipping sauce. A low-carb garlic aioli, sugar-free marinara, or even a creamy ranch dressing would pair perfectly with their savory flavors.
Nutritional Information (per bite, approximately):
Calories: 45 kcal
Total Fat: 3.5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
Sugars: 0.5g
Protein: 3g
This nutritional breakdown is based on making 24 small broccoli cheese bites.
Tips for Success:
Broccoli Consistency: For the best texture, make sure your broccoli is finely chopped. If the pieces are too large, they won’t bind as well with the other ingredients, making it difficult to form the bites.
Dry Your Broccoli: Removing excess moisture from the broccoli is crucial for achieving crispy bites. After blanching, take the time to thoroughly pat dry the florets, or even spread them out on a kitchen towel for a few minutes to air-dry.
Cheese Selection: Using sharp or extra-sharp cheddar will give you a bolder flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyère or mozzarella, for a twist on the recipe.
Gluten-Free Option: If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, it already fits the bill! However, be mindful of your choice of dipping sauces to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating: These bites are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.
Keto-Friendly Dips: Pair these bites with low-carb dipping sauces like a sugar-free BBQ sauce, mustard aioli, or a sour cream and chive dip to keep things flavorful and keto-compliant.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites offer a guilt-free, tasty way to enjoy your vegetables without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a snack for game day, a party appetizer, or a quick weeknight side dish, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Plus, they’re low in carbs and packed with protein and fiber, making them a great option for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
Try them today and let the savory, cheesy goodness transform your snack time!
