Broccoli Cheddar Bites offer a delightful fusion of wholesome vegetables and comforting cheese, packed into convenient bite-sized portions that are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even a light meal. These savory morsels combine tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a flavorful marriage of textures and flavors that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The process begins with blanching or steaming the broccoli until just tender, then chopping it into small pieces. The broccoli is then mixed with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, along with eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, forming a cohesive mixture that binds together beautifully. Once shaped into bite-sized balls or patties, the broccoli cheddar bites are baked until golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining moist and tender on the inside. The result is a tantalizing appetizer or snack that’s bursting with cheesy goodness and wholesome vegetable goodness, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether served as a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks or as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these broccoli cheddar bites are sure to become a favorite in any household, offering a delicious way to sneak in some extra veggies without compromising on flavor or satisfaction. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, with a side of dipping sauce or as is, for a satisfying and nutritious snack that’s as convenient as it is delicious.
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Ingredients:
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2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use regular or panko breadcrumbs)
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
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Blanch the Broccoli:
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Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until just tender. Drain the broccoli and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat the broccoli dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
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Prepare the Mixture:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Shape the Bites:
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Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a small ball or patty. Place the formed broccoli cheddar bites onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a little apart from each other.
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Bake the Bites:
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Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the broccoli cheddar bites for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Serve and Enjoy:
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Once baked, remove the broccoli cheddar bites from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish. Optionally, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce or ranch dressing.
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Additional Tips:
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding additional seasonings or ingredients, such as chopped green onions, diced bell peppers, or cooked bacon bits.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- These broccoli cheddar bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, you can broil the broccoli cheddar bites for a couple of minutes after baking to achieve a golden crust.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd or for meal prep purposes.
Enjoy these delicious and nutritious Broccoli Cheddar Bites as a wholesome snack, appetizer, or side dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
