Eating veggies can be fun when you make these quick and easy Broccoli Bites!
It’s not always easy to get children to eat vegetables, but with these broccoli bites, you may find yourself asking them to leave some for you! They are the perfect size for little hands, but don’t let that fool you. Adults love to pop these little flavor bombs in their mouths, as well. Packed with savory flavor, these baked goodies are low in calories but big on taste!
I’ve also cheated a bit and cooked a bag of frozen riced or chopped broccoli—draining it well and using it in this recipe. It was so easy, and I’ll probably do that again when I’m short on time or don’t have any fresh broccoli on hand. I’m always looking for shortcuts to simplify my life. You can even substitute cooked cauliflower or cauliflower rice in this recipe for great results. I also find that grating the onion rather than chopping it is my preferred way to make this dish, just like I do when I make salmon or tuna patties. However, I’ve had friends who tried this dish tell me they love the little bits of finely chopped onion, so I leave it to you to decide which you prefer.
I often make a double batch, so I have plenty to store in the freezer for future meals when I don’t feel much like cooking or want a quick, tasty snack. They’re great for school and work lunchboxes, too, and are equally delicious cold. I like to make them for picnics, buffet tables, and parties, and they’re a great game day treat.
Unlike when making muffins with batter, you want to pack this mixture into the muffin cups. The result is a perfect dish that can be part of Meatless Monday, especially when served with rice or pasta. These broccoli bites go great with a variety of dipping sauces, including Cottage Cheese Dip, Greek Yogurt Dip, and this delicious Onion Ring Sauce.
Customization made easy!
One of the things I like most about these broccoli bites is how easy it is to customize this recipe for different dietary requirements. I’m gluten-free, so using gluten-free (GF) breadcrumbs makes this dish suitable for me and everyone else I’m serving. You can use any flavor or type of GF breadcrumbs, including panko crumbs. Panko crumbs make for a crunchier bite, whereas regular breadcrumbs make these little beauties softer. I’ve even used Italian seasoned crumbs, and these bites turned out delicious.
It’s just as easy to make these bites suitable for people who don’t consume dairy. You can substitute plant-based cheese and get tasty results. As with dairy options, you can easily swap the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for any flavor combination you enjoy. Regular or plant-based mozzarella and Parmesan with Italian-style breadcrumbs make a perfect side dish for any pasta meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow leftover broccoli bites to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Once chilled, they can be frozen in a freezer-safe container or zippered bag for up to 3 months. Reheat them from frozen, or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat them in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Similar recipes to try
Dishes like broccoli bites are perfect for meals, snacks, or on-the-go eating. Other deliciously fun recipes to try are On-The-Go Egg Bites, Corn Nuggets, and for a sweeter touch, try this Keto Cookie Dough Bites Recipe for yummy treats you can keep in the freezer. If you’d rather make a cheesy broccoli side dish, try this Low-Carb Broccoli Cheese Casserole.
Broccoli Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked and finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup whole grain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3/4 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- Kosher salt to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a mini muffin pan.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked, chopped broccoli, egg, breadcrumbs, both cheeses, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into each muffin cup, pressing firmly to pack the mixture and create compact bites.
- Bake for about 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
- Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your healthy snack!
Leave a Comment