Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work well for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
- Prep the Broccoli:
- Steam the broccoli florets until they’re tender (about 5-7 minutes). Let them cool for a few minutes, then chop them finely. If there’s any excess water, squeeze it out using a clean towel or paper towel to keep the bites from being too soggy.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Optionally, add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Form the Bites:
- Using your hands, form small balls or patties (about 1-2 inches in size). You should get about 12-16 bites, depending on the size.
- Cook the Bites:
- Option 1: Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the broccoli bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the outside.
- Option 2: Fry: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the bites and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the bites cool for a minute, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or a spicy mayo.
Tips:
- You can also try adding other seasonings or herbs, such as paprika, parsley, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.
Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli Bites! They’re perfect for snacks, appetizers, or a fun side dish!