If you’re searching for a quick, savory snack to fit your low-carb lifestyle, keto broccoli cheese bites could be the answer. They’re mini bites of cheesy goodness, loaded with broccoli, that make a perfect appetizer, lunchbox filler, or even a quick breakfast on busy mornings. Picture small, hot morsels of cheddar-rich broccoli that hit the spot without weighing you down.
These bites also make fantastic meal-prep options. You can whip up a batch, store them in the fridge, and heat them up whenever you need a quick bite. Ready to learn how?
Ingredients
- 2 cups of finely chopped broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed. You want the cheese to bind the broccoli pieces together.
- Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture at a time and form small, bite-sized rounds on your baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown around the edges.
- Let them cool slightly before serving so they hold their shape.
Feel free to add seasonings like onion powder or paprika if you want more flavor. If you like a crispier texture, you can bake them a little longer.
Nutrition facts
Below is a general estimate per two-bite serving (this can vary with cheese brand and broccoli size):
- Calories: ~80
- Fat: ~5g
- Carbs: ~2g (net)
- Protein: ~6g
These estimates are meant to give you a ballpark figure. If you’re following a strict diet, it’s always a good idea to plug the exact ingredients into your preferred nutrition-tracking app.
Final thoughts
These broccoli cheese bites are a simple way to sneak in extra veggies without sacrificing flavor. They pair nicely with a dollop of sour cream or even a sugar-free marinara if you want a dipping sauce. Whether you’re planning a gathering or just looking for an easy weekday treat, these cheesy bites are sure to impress.
Don’t hesitate to customize them. You might toss in some chopped bacon for extra crunch or even play around with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack. It’s all about finding what works best for your taste buds and lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Thaw and drain it well before chopping, or it could add extra moisture and affect the texture. - How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about five minutes or until warmed through. - Are these bites freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. - Can I use other vegetables?
Definitely. Chopped spinach or cauliflower can work well, but you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. - Why are they falling apart?
They sometimes crumble if the mixture is too dry or not bound well. Try adding another egg or a bit more cheese to help the ingredients stick together.
Ingredients
2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly distributed. You want the cheese to bind the broccoli pieces together.
- Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture at a time and form small, bite-sized rounds on your baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown around the edges.
- Let them cool slightly before serving so they hold their shape.
