These crispy broccoli cheddar bites are a delicious way to enjoy your vegetables. Packed with nutritious broccoli and melty cheddar cheese, they make for the perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish. Whether you’re trying to sneak more veggies into your meal or simply crave a savory treat, these bites are sure to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These broccoli cheddar bites are an easy and fun way to enjoy the flavors of cheesy goodness and fresh broccoli. The combination of shredded cheddar cheese and broccoli, bound together with eggs and breadcrumbs, creates a crispy outside with a soft, cheesy center. They’re perfect for kids, adults, and anyone looking for a healthier yet indulgent snack. Best of all, they’re quick to make and full of flavor, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.

Broccoli Cheddar Bites

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional: salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and chop into small pieces. Alternatively, you can blanch the broccoli by boiling it for 2-3 minutes and then transferring it to ice water.
Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, and optional salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Form the bites: Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into small balls or patties. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the bites: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve: Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 12-15 bites
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add spices: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
Cheese options: While cheddar is classic, you can try other cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme can enhance the flavor and add freshness.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with ground almonds or oats for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked broccoli cheddar bites. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To reheat, place the bites in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes or heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine for this recipe. Be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.

2. Can I make these bites in an air fryer?

Yes, air frying is a great way to make these bites even crispier! Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the bites for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

3. How can I make these bites vegan?

You can make these bites vegan by using a dairy-free cheese substitute and replacing the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower to the mix. Just be sure to chop them finely and steam them until tender.

5. Can I bake these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bites ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them. Simply bake them when you’re ready to serve.

6. How do I prevent the bites from being too soggy?

Be sure to drain the broccoli well after steaming or blanching. Excess moisture can make the bites soggy, so pressing out any water from the broccoli will help achieve a crispy texture.

7. Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs?

Yes, panko breadcrumbs will give the bites an even crispier texture. Feel free to use them as a substitute.

8. Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, if you’d like a crispier exterior, you can fry these bites in a shallow pan with a bit of oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

9. Can I make a dipping sauce for these?

Absolutely! Serve these broccoli cheddar bites with ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy mayo for dipping.

10. How can I make the bites spicier?

To add spice, you can incorporate some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the mixture or sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper on top before baking.

Conclusion

These broccoli cheddar bites are the perfect way to enjoy a healthy snack with a cheesy twist. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, they’re a great choice for anyone looking to add more veggies to their diet or simply enjoy a tasty treat. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these bites are sure to be a favorite!