Description
Transform broccoli into an irresistible snack by blending it with gooey cheese, breadcrumbs, and simple seasonings. These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites are perfect for quick appetizers, game-day treats, or a way to sneak more veggies into your menu.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional spices: ½ teaspoon paprika or chili flakes
- Oil spray or olive oil (if air frying or pan-frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli
- If using fresh broccoli, blanch florets in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain and plunge into ice water. Pat them dry thoroughly. If using frozen, thaw completely and remove any excess moisture.
- Chop and Mix
- Finely chop the broccoli or pulse in a food processor. In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), onion, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add eggs, then stir until the mixture holds together. Adjust with extra breadcrumbs or cheese if needed.
- Shape Bites
- Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and roll into balls or press into mini patties. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Choose Cooking Method
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
- Air Frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat the bites with oil spray. Air fry for 8–12 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway.
- Pan-Frying: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each bite for 2–3 minutes per side until crisp and golden.
- Serve
- Let the bites cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Notes
- Adjust seasonings to taste. Add more cheese for a richer flavor or extra breadcrumbs if the mixture is too wet.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking (or Air Frying)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 bites
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: crispy broccoli cheese bites, cheesy broccoli bites, broccoli appetizer, broccoli cheese snack