These Easy Broccoli Bites are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish that’s packed with cheesy, crispy goodness. Made with simple ingredients like broccoli, cheese, eggs, and breadcrumbs, these bites are perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a lunchbox addition, or a low-carb snack, these broccoli bites are a great choice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A great way to get kids to eat more vegetables.
- Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later.
- Can be baked or air-fried for a healthier option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh or frozen broccoli, finely chopped
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the Broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli until tender. Drain and finely chop.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Form the Bites: Scoop out small portions and shape them into bite-sized balls or patties.
- Bake: Place the bites on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or marinara.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-15 broccoli bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella for an even gooier bite.
- Spicy Version: Mix in a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked broccoli bites in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 3-5 minutes until crispy.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Thaw and drain well before chopping to prevent excess moisture.
2. What dipping sauces go well with these?
Ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or a simple garlic aioli work great.
3. How do I make them crispier?
Use panko breadcrumbs and bake or air fry at a higher temperature for a few extra minutes.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Try adding finely chopped carrots, cauliflower, or spinach.
5. Are these good for meal prep?
Yes! Make a batch and store in the fridge or freezer for a quick snack or side.
6. Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Pan-fry in a little oil over medium heat until golden brown.
7. What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella work well, but you can mix in feta or Gouda for variety.
8. Can I make these egg-free?
Use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) as a substitute.
9. How do I prevent them from falling apart?
Make sure to finely chop the broccoli and use enough egg and breadcrumbs to bind them.
10. Can I serve these cold?
They taste best warm, but they can be eaten cold as a quick snack or lunchbox item.
Conclusion
These Easy Broccoli Bites are a simple, nutritious, and tasty way to enjoy broccoli. Whether you bake, fry, or air-fry them, they make a fantastic snack or side dish that the whole family will love. Try them today and add a fun twist to your veggie game!
Print
Easy Broccoli Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Broccoli Bites are a fun and delicious way to enjoy veggies! Packed with cheese and lightly seasoned, these bite-sized snacks are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They make a great appetizer, side dish, or even a kid-friendly snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli and cook for 2 minutes, then drain and transfer to an ice water bath. Pat dry and finely chop.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
Shape & Bake:
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small balls or patties. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate the mixture up to a day in advance.
- Variations: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or add finely chopped carrots for extra veggies.