These Broccoli Cheese Bites are a fun and tasty way to eat your veggies! They are packed with cheesy goodness and crispy edges, making them perfect for snacks or appetizers.
Who knew eating broccoli could be so delicious? I love serving them warm and watch everyone enjoy these little bites! They’re the sneaky way to get greens on your plate. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are best for vibrant flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh, use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it well. I always chop them finely so they mix well with other ingredients!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for these bites. I often blend it with mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese or a mix of cashew and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend Panko breadcrumbs for added crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will work too. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds as a substitute.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the mixture, but if you prefer a vegan option, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites?
For crispiness, the frying technique is key! Start by making sure the broccoli is well-drained after blanching. Too much moisture can steam the bites instead of frying them. Here’s how to get them crispy:
- Heat your oil to medium-high before adding the bites. If the oil isn’t hot enough, they will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook them in batches if needed, as too many at once can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
- Flip the bites gently with a spatula to cook evenly on all sides, achieving that golden brown color.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy and delightful Broccoli Cheese Bites every time!
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crispiness recommended)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray for frying
Time Needed:
This delightful recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, adding up to roughly 30-35 minutes total. You’ll love how quickly these tasty bites come together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the finely chopped broccoli florets and let them blanch for 2-3 minutes until they’re tender but still bright green. Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and pat the broccoli dry with paper towels to remove excess water. This step really helps with the final crunch!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your blanched broccoli with the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley (if you’re using it). Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything together until well combined.
3. Add the Eggs:
In a small bowl, crack the two large eggs and beat them lightly. Pour the beaten eggs into your broccoli mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated and holds together nicely. The eggs are crucial for binding!
4. Form the Bites:
Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, take small portions of the mixture and form them into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This will give you perfectly shaped bites ready for frying!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a skillet over medium heat, add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil (or spray with cooking spray). Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before adding the bites; it should shimmer but not smoke.
6. Fry the Bites:
Carefully place the broccoli cheese bites into the hot skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. If the heat is too high and they start to burn, reduce it a bit to ensure even cooking.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the bites are beautifully browned, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the broccoli cheese bites warm along with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a cheesy dip. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy delights as an appetizer or snack!
Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping and using it in the recipe, so you maintain the right texture.
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the bites a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just allow them to come to room temperature before frying for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover broccoli cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or air fryer to help restore their crispiness!
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Bites?
These bites are delicious with a variety of sauces! Try them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick. You can also serve them with a creamy cheese dip for extra indulgence!