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Crispy on the outside and cheesy inside, these broccoli bites are a delicious way to serve veggies to picky eaters.
Let's all be honest - broccoli and cheese is a combination that is hard to top. I've used it in multiple ways - from broccoli cheddar soup to a chicken and broccoli bake to four cheese white broccoli pizza.
But why not have something in bite sized form that can not only be served to those picky eaters out there, but is also great as finger food at a party.
Why This Recipe Works
- Picky eaters - These broccoli bites are a delicious way to make broccoli appealing to children.
- Party food - While these are great for lunch fo kids, you can also serve at any gathering and everyone will enjoy them!
- Freezer-friendly - You can make ahead and then throw in the freezer for up to 3 months until ready to use.
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Ingredient Notes
- Broccoli - Fresh or frozen broccoli can be used for this recipe. Just make sure it is cooked before pulsing with the other ingredients.
- Breadcrumbs - Create a crispy coating but also helps thicken the interior.
- Cheese - To me, broccoli should also be paired with a good sharp cheddar cheese.
- Eggs - Binds the ingredients together for the perfect bite.
- Green onions and garlic - Adds a hint of freshness and savory kick.
- Paprika and salt - Enhances the flavor.
- Oil spray - Helps brown the bites as they bake.
Ingredient Swaps
As with any recipe, you can switch up some of the ingredients. Some variations include:
- Instead of broccoli, you can try cauliflower for something different.
- Regular breadcrumbs can be used as opposed to panko.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella or feta instead of cheddar.
- If you or your child has an egg allergy, try flax eggs.
- Try chives or finely chopped leeks for a similar flavor to green onions.
- Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic but just keep in mind it is more potent so use ½ teaspoon total.
Step-by-Step Photos
Please note full ingredient list and instructions can be found in recipe card below.
Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and pulse until combined. Scoop out 1 inch sized balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Spray the bites with oil before placing in the oven at 400°F and baking for 22-24 minutes or until done.
FAQs
My go-to is using the microwave. Place the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl with a 3 tablespoon of water, cover and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes until tender.
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. You still want to cook until
Sure. Just substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Try a yogurt dip, marinara, honey-mustard sauce or just good old ketchup.
Yes. You can freeze before or after cooking. If before, just bake from frozen for a couple of minutes longer.
After cooking, you can freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Equipment
The equipment you use is important to how the recipe turns out. What is needed is the following:
- Food processor - Used to pulse together the ingredients.
- Cookie scoop - You want a 1 tablespoon sized scoop for about 1 inch sized bites but you can also use a bigger scoop.
- Baking sheet - A 13x18 sheet pan can fit all of the bites.
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
- If you don't have a food processor, just finely chop all of the ingredients and combine in a bowl.
- Use a cookie scoop if possible to get the same shape size so they cook evenly.
- To get that extra crispiness, make sure you spray with oil spray before placing in the oven.
- Pierce one of the bites with a toothpick and if it comes out clean, they're ready.
Other Appetizer Recipes
If you’ve tried these broccoli bites or any other recipe on Chisel & Fork, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You could also try these risotto cakes for another great appetizer. You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube to see more tasty meals and anything else I'm up to.
Broccoli Bites
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cooked
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cut in 1 inch cubes
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves
- ¾ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and pulse until everything is finely chopped.
- Use a tablespoon sized cookie scoop and scoop out the mixture, forming into a ball. Place on the parchment-lined baking sheet and repeat until done.
- Spray with oil and bake for 22-24 minutes or until the tops are crisp and golden. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- If you don't have a food processor, just finely chop all of the ingredients and combine in a bowl.
- Use a cookie scoop if possible to get the same shape size so they cook evenly.
- To get that extra crispiness, make sure you spray with oil spray before placing in the oven.
- Pierce one of the bites with a toothpick and if it comes out clean, they're ready.
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