π§π₯¦ Baked Broccoli Cheese Bites
Cheesy, crispy, veggie-packed bites that are oven-baked to golden perfection. A kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer!
π§Ύ Ingredients:
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2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped (steamed or blanched beforehand for tenderness)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for more flavor)
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Β½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
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2 eggs, beaten
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ΒΌ cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Β½ teaspoon salt
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ΒΌ teaspoon black pepper
π¨βπ³ Instructions:
β Step 1: Prep the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
β Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
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Steam or blanch the broccoli for 2β3 minutes until tender.
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Let cool slightly, then finely chop into small pieces.
β Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
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In a large bowl, combine:
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Chopped broccoli
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Breadcrumbs
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Beaten eggs
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Flour
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Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
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Mix everything together until it forms a sticky, uniform mixture.
β Step 4: Form the Bites
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Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion the mixture.
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Roll into compact 1β1.5 inch balls with your hands.
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Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each.
β Step 5: Bake
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Bake in the preheated oven for 18β20 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
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Optional: Broil for the last 1β2 minutes for extra crispiness.
β Step 6: Serve
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as:
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Ranch dressing
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Sriracha mayo
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Garlic aioli
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Marinara sauce
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β±οΈ Time & Yield:
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
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Makes: About 20 bites (serves 4β6)
π‘ Tips & Variations:
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Air Fryer Method: Bake at 375Β°F for 10β12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
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Add grated carrot or finely chopped bell pepper for more veggie variety.
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Swap cheddar with pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
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Make ahead and reheat in the oven or air fryer for quick snacks.