These broccoli cheese bites are little nuggets of joy! Packed with fresh broccoli and gooey cheese, they’re perfect for a snack or a fun side dish.
Who can resist cheese? I love making these bites for gatherings, and they disappear fast. Trust me, they’re a hit—even with kids who might be picky about veggies! 🥦🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh is best! You want bright green florets that are tender, but not mushy. If broccoli isn’t available, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained before using it.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but any cheese that melts well—like mozzarella or Monterey Jack—works great too. You can even mix different cheeses for added flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty depth. If you run out, you can substitute with a similar hard cheese, like Pecorino Romano, for a different twist.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko because it gives a great crunch! If you’re avoiding bread, you can use ground almonds or even crushed nuts for a gluten-free option.
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Texture for My Broccoli Cheese Bites?
The goal is a crispy outside and a gooey inside. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Blanch the broccoli quickly to maintain a vibrant color and slight crunch. This step is important for texture!
- Make sure the mixture is a bit sticky, which helps in forming the bites. If it’s too dry, add a splash of water or an extra egg to bind it together.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; give them space so they crisp up nicely on each side. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Allow the bites to drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil, keeping them from getting soggy.
Enjoy making these bites; they’re easy and a fun way to sneak in some veggies!
How to Make Delicious Broccoli Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese of your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Coating and Cooking:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Ranch dressing or your favorite dip for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes from start to plate. These bites are quick to make and perfect for a snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2 minutes. This helps them retain their bright green color and slight crunch. After 2 minutes, drain the broccoli and immediately plunge it into a bowl of ice water. This halts the cooking process. Once cool, drain again and finely chop the broccoli.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well distributed.
3. Incorporate the Eggs:
In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Gradually add the eggs to the broccoli mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined and the mixture is sticky enough to form small balls or patties.
4. Form the Bites:
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized balls or flattened patties. Once formed, roll each one in breadcrumbs to coat them lightly. This will provide a nice crunch when cooked!
5. Fry the Broccoli Bites:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the broccoli cheese bites into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the bites from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. You can sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious bites warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dip. They’re perfect for snacking or as a tasty side dish! Enjoy your crispy, gooey broccoli cheese bites!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture. This will help your bites maintain the right texture and prevent them from being too soggy.
How Can I Make These Broccoli Cheese Bites Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. The hooks will still hold together beautifully!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the bites on a lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
How Should I Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the oven or an air fryer to help restore their crispiness. Microwave reheating is possible, but they may lose some crunch.
