Cheesy Broccoli Bites

$- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch) - 2 large eggs, beaten - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper, to taste - Olive oil spray (for cooking) To make tasty cheesy broccoli bites, start with fresh broccoli. I love steaming the florets first. This keeps the flavor bright and the color vibrant. Then, I finely chop the broccoli. This helps the bites hold together better. Cheddar cheese gives a nice sharp taste. I often use sharp cheddar for extra flavor. The Parmesan brings a creaminess that balances well. And don’t skip on the breadcrumbs! Using panko makes them extra crunchy. I always add garlic for a punch of flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your taste. The onion powder and paprika add depth, too. Salt and pepper are key. They bring all the flavors to life. Olive oil spray helps the bites crisp up as they bake. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference. - Red pepper flakes for spice - Fresh herbs like parsley or chives If you want a kick, add red pepper flakes. They bring a nice heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten the bites. They add color and flavor. Feel free to mix and match these ingredients. The result will always be delicious! For the full recipe, check out the instructions I’ve provided. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the bites cook evenly and get crispy. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step keeps the bites from sticking. Next, take a large bowl and combine the following ingredients: - 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch) - 2 large eggs, beaten - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper, to taste Mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly blended. Now, it’s time to shape your mixture. Use your hands to form small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. This size is perfect for popping in your mouth. Once formed, arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. To help them crisp up, lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Now, bake the bites in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and crisp on the outside. For even cooking, flip them halfway through the baking time. This ensures both sides get that perfect crunch. When they are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli bites as a fun snack or appetizer! For more details, check the full recipe. To create the best cheesy broccoli bites, finely chop the broccoli. This ensures that each bite has a uniform flavor and texture. Large pieces can make the bites fall apart, so small pieces are key. Using the right breadcrumbs is also vital. I recommend panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. They give your bites a nice texture. Mix the breadcrumbs well with the other ingredients. This helps them bind together and stay intact while baking. For dipping, marinara and garlic aioli are both great options. They add flavor and fun to your bites. You can serve the cheesy broccoli bites on a colorful platter. This makes the dish look inviting. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. If you are dairy-free, try using dairy-free cheese. Many brands offer great flavors that work well in this recipe. For a vegan version, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Both options help bind the mixture together without eggs. For the full recipe, check the main section where I share all the steps and tips! {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese in your Cheesy Broccoli Bites. Try using mozzarella. It melts well and gives a gooey texture. This makes each bite extra cheesy and delightful. If you want a tangy kick, use feta cheese. Feta adds a nice flavor twist that surprises your taste buds. Feel free to add other vegetables to your bites. Carrots bring a sweet crunch, while spinach adds color and nutrients. You can also use seasonal veggies. Think about zucchini in summer or sweet potatoes in fall. These changes keep your bites fresh and fun. You can boost the flavor of your bites with herbs or spices. Italian seasoning gives a warm, herby taste. A bit of lemon zest brightens up the mix, too. For those who like heat, add jalapeños or a splash of sriracha. This lets you control the spice level and cater to your taste. To keep your cheesy broccoli bites fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. In the fridge, they last about 3-4 days. For longer shelf life, you can freeze them. First, let the bites cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for a few hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy your cheesy broccoli bites again, use the oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes. This will keep them crispy. In an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C). Heat for around 5-7 minutes. This method works well to maintain the crunchiness. Avoid using the microwave. It makes the bites soggy and less tasty. Make sure to check them frequently to avoid overcooking. Cheesy Broccoli Bites can last for about 3-5 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you freeze them, they can last for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. Yes, you can prep Cheesy Broccoli Bites ahead of time. You can make the mixture and shape the bites a day before. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, bake them as usual. This saves time for busy days or parties. These bites pair well with many things. You can serve them with marinara sauce for a classic dip. Garlic aioli also makes a great choice. For drinks, a light lemonade or sparkling water complements them nicely. Try serving a fresh salad on the side for a balanced meal. For the full recipe and detailed instructions, check out [Cheesy Broccoli Bites](#). In this post, we covered how to make Cheesy Broccoli Bites. You now know the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for making these tasty snacks. Don't forget variations and storage options to keep things fresh. These bites are not only easy to prepare but fun to share. With simple swaps, you can customize them to suit anyone’s taste. Enjoy your cooking and create a perfect dish that everyone will love. You have the tools, so get baking!$

Satisfy your cravings with these delicious Cheesy Broccoli Bites! Packed with nutrition and flavor, these easy-to-make bites combine steamed broccoli, cheddar, and Parmesan for a tasty snack everyone will love. Perfect for parties or a healthy appetizer, you can whip them up in just 40 minutes. Click to discover the full recipe and impress your family and friends with this cheesy delight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

2 large eggs, beaten

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil spray (for cooking)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.

Using your hands, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Lightly spray the tops of the broccoli bites with olive oil to help them crisp up while baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and crisp on the outside. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the cheesy broccoli bites on a colorful platter with a side of marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added pop of color!