These Broccoli Cheese Bites are small cheesy treats packed with green goodness! They’re crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth cheesy on the inside—yummy! 🧀
I love whipping these up for a fun snack or appetizer. They’re a sneaky way to get some veggies in while still enjoying a cheesy delight. Trust me, you’ll want to double the batch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for these bites. You can also use frozen, just be sure to thaw and drain it well. I find that blanching brightens the color and enhances the flavor, making it a must-do step.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using a sharp cheddar for a strong flavor, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste. You can even swap in pepper jack for a hint of spice.
Parmesan Cheese: This makes the bites extra cheesy and adds depth. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be a nice substitute for that cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a great crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can even make your own by toasting and crushing gluten-free bread.
How Do You Properly Blanch Broccoli?
Blanching broccoli is easy, and it helps in keeping the bright green color and tender-crisp texture. Here’s how:
- Fill a pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil.
- Add your chopped broccoli and let it boil for 2-3 minutes until bright green.
- Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. This method locks in color and texture.
- Drain it well and pat dry—this ensures your bites won’t be soggy!
What’s the Best Way to Fry These Bites for Crispiness?
Frying gives these bites their delicious golden crust! To get it right, follow these tips:
- Heat your oil to around 350°F (175°C) for crispy results. A kitchen thermometer is handy here!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry them in small batches to maintain temperature and even cooking.
- Drain cooked bites on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.
Follow these tips, and your Broccoli Cheese Bites will turn out fabulous every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Broccoli Cheese 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, plus extra for coating
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes for frying. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 35 minutes from start to finish! These bites are quick to put together, making them perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Broccoli:
In a pot filled with salted water, bring it to a boil. Add the finely chopped broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes until they’re bright green and tender but still crisp. Drain them well and pat dry with paper towels to soak up any excess moisture. This step is crucial to keep your bites from getting soggy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well mixed and the broccoli is coated evenly with cheese and seasonings.
3. Incorporate the Eggs:
In a small bowl, beat the eggs well. Pour the beaten eggs into the broccoli mixture and combine until the mix holds together when pressed. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra breadcrumbs to help with cohesion.
4. Shape the Bites:
With your hands, take a scoop of the mixture and shape it into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go!
5. Set Up Dredging Station:
Set up three shallow bowls: one filled with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs. This will be your layering station!
6. Coat the Bites:
Take each broccoli cheese ball and coat it first in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will give them that nice crispy texture when fried!
7. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go!
8. Fry the Bites:
Fry the bites in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. They should be delightful crunchy little morsels of goodness!
9. Drain and Cool:
Carefully remove the bites with a slotted spoon, and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Broccoli Cheese Bites warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli. Enjoy your deliciously crispy, cheesy treats!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead?
Absolutely! If using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water. You may also want to chop it a bit smaller for even cooking and texture.
How Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
To bake the Broccoli Cheese Bites, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bites on a lined baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Your bites will still be delicious and crispy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, helping to maintain their crispiness!
