These Broccoli Cheese Bites are the perfect little snack! They are made with fresh broccoli, gooey cheese, and breadcrumbs, all baked to a crisp golden brown. Yum!
They’re great for kids and adults alike. I love serving them with a little dip on the side—who can resist warm cheese? They disappear faster than I can make them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too—just thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice tang. If you want something milder, you can use mild cheddar or even mozzarella. For a kick, try adding pepper jack.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs. However, if you want extra flavor, seasoned breadcrumbs or panko can make these bites crunchier. Just ensure they match your taste preferences!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic bring a lot of flavor. For a milder taste, you might use green onions instead. You could also use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binder.
How Can I Ensure My Broccoli Cheese Bites Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is key to a great Broccoli Cheese Bite! Here are my best tips:
- **Blanch the Broccoli:** Quickly cook the broccoli in boiling water first. This step not only softens it but also brightens the color and flavor.
- **Dry the Broccoli:** After blanching, pat it dry thoroughly. Removing moisture helps avoid soggy bites.
- **Breadcrumb Coating:** Roll each ball in extra breadcrumbs for that crispy exterior. Spraying or brushing them lightly with oil gives an even better crunch.
- **Bake Until Golden:** Keep an eye on them during baking—you’re aiming for a beautiful golden color. This usually takes 20-25 minutes.
Following these tips ensures your bites will be delightfully crispy and pleasing to all!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes to bake, so you’ll have delicious Broccoli Cheese Bites ready in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Broccoli:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating, start boiling a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add your finely chopped broccoli and let it simmer for about 2 minutes until it’s bright green and tender. Drain the broccoli and pat it dry with a paper towel to get rid of any extra moisture. This will help keep your bites crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your blanched broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano (or Italian seasoning), and optional parsley. Mix everything together really well so that all the ingredients are combined.
3. Bind with Eggs:
In a small bowl, beat the eggs and then pour them into the broccoli mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold its shape when formed into balls. If it’s too loose, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs until you achieve the right consistency.
4. Form the Bites:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in some extra breadcrumbs to give them a nice coating. This helps them become extra crispy when baked!
5. Bake:
Place the balls in a greased mini muffin pan or spread them out evenly on a baking sheet. Before baking, spray them lightly with cooking spray or brush some oil over the top to enhance crisping. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re baked, pull them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’re perfect just on their own, but you can pair them with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and delicious Broccoli Cheese Bites as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping and incorporating it into the mixture. This will prevent your bites from becoming soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you want a dairy-free option, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor if you’d like to skip cheese altogether!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Broccoli Cheese Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the bites ahead of time, then store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze the uncooked balls and bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
