Looking for a tasty way to enjoy more veggies? These Easy Cheesy Broccoli Bites are the perfect snack or appetizer, combining fresh broccoli with gooey cheddar cheese and a crispy breadcrumb coating. They’re simple to make and packed with flavor, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Serve them as a healthy snack, a side dish, or a party appetizer, and watch them disappear in no time!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh broccoli, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or a little olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
- Heat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Finely chop the fresh broccoli florets into small pieces. You can use a food processor for quicker chopping, but be careful not to over-process the broccoli.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir everything together until well combined.
- Form the Bites: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Bake the Broccoli Bites: Lightly spray the tops of the broccoli bites with olive oil spray or brush them with a little olive oil to help them brown and crisp up in the oven. Arrange the broccoli pieces on the baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the broccoli bites from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious on their own or dipped in your favorite sauce, such as ranch dressing, marinara, or a spicy aioli.
Conclusion:
These Easy Cheesy Broccoli Bites are a fun and flavorful way to get more veggies into your diet. With their crispy exterior and cheesy, tender interior, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family. Perfect for snacking, serving as a side dish, or bringing to a party, these broccoli bites are versatile, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, and don’t be surprised if they quickly become a household favorite!