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Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites

These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites are golden on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with fresh broccoli. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they're easy to bake, kid-friendly, and ready in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Keyword: Baked Broccoli Bites, Broccoli Cheese Balls, Cheesy Broccoli Bites, Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites, Healthy Broccoli Snack
Servings: 18 Bytes
Calories: 165kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender. Drain well, cool slightly, and finely chop.
  • In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
  • Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the mixture and shape it into bite-sized balls or small patties. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Lightly spray the bites with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Drain the broccoli thoroughly to prevent soggy bites.
  • Finely chop the broccoli for the best texture.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Flip the bites halfway through baking for even browning.
  • Chill the mixture for 10–15 minutes if it's too soft to shape.
  • Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 bites
  • Calories: 165 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Potassium: 240mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 850 IU
  • Vitamin C: 38mg
  • Calcium: 210mg
  • Iron: 1mg