These Broccoli and Cheese Bites are a deliciously simple way to enjoy a veggie-packed snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
High in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, they feature wholesome ingredients like broccoli, eggs, and cheese, making them low in carbs and full of good fats.
Perfect for quick meals, lunchboxes, or meal prep, they’re kid-friendly and freezer-ready.
Broccoli and Cheese Bites
Equipment
- 1 Large pot (for boiling broccoli)
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 mini muffin pan (silicone or non-stick recommended)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets cooked and finely chopped
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup shredded cheese mozzarella, cheddar, or blend
- ¼ cup onion finely chopped
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Start by washing 1 cup of broccoli florets thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once clean, bring a medium-sized pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully add the broccoli florets and let them cook for about 3 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook; the broccoli should retain a slight crunch for the best texture. Drain the broccoli in a colander and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, finely chop the florets into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that each bite has a consistent texture and makes it easier to combine with the other ingredients.
- Combine Ingredients in a Mixing Bowl: Take a large mixing bowl and add the finely chopped broccoli. Then, add ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs to the bowl. The breadcrumbs will help bind the mixture and give the bites a light, crispy exterior. Next, crack 1 large egg into the bowl; the egg acts as a natural binder to hold everything together during baking. Add ½ cup of shredded cheese, which will melt and create a gooey, flavorful center. Then, incorporate ¼ cup of finely chopped onions, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt if desired. Using a spoon or spatula, mix everything thoroughly. Make sure the broccoli, cheese, onion, egg, and breadcrumbs are evenly combined. Take your time here; the mixture should be slightly sticky but easy to scoop and shape.
- Preheat the Oven: Before shaping the bites, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a conventional oven, allow it to reach the full temperature before baking to ensure even cooking. Preheating is essential for achieving a golden, lightly crispy top on each bite.
- Prepare the Mini Muffin Pan: If using a silicone muffin pan, lightly grease each cavity with a thin layer of cooking spray to prevent sticking. If using a metal or non-stick pan, generously coat with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil. Avoid using paper liners, as the mixture tends to stick and may tear when removed. The muffin pan will help shape uniform bites that cook evenly on all sides.
- Shape and Fill the Bites: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, portion the broccoli mixture into the muffin pan cavities. Press down gently with the back of the spoon or your fingers to compact the mixture slightly; this helps the bites hold their shape while baking. Each cavity should be filled evenly, about ¾ full, to allow room for the cheese to melt and the top to turn golden. Take care not to overfill, as the bites can spill over during baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Keep a close eye on the bites during the last 5 minutes to avoid over-browning. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are golden brown, the edges are slightly crisp, and the cheese inside has melted fully. The bites should hold together firmly when gently pressed with a spatula.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the muffin pan from the oven and let the bites cool completely in the pan for 5–10 minutes. Cooling allows the bites to firm up, making them easier to remove without breaking. Gently pop each bite out of the pan and transfer to a serving plate.
- Storage and Freezing Tips: These broccoli and cheese bites are perfect for meal prep. Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For long-term storage, arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick, satisfying snack.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these bites on their own as a snack, pack them in lunchboxes, or serve as a side dish with a dipping sauce such as ketchup, ranch, or a yogurt-based dip. They’re also great paired with a fresh salad or soup for a complete, wholesome meal.
Notes
- Makes approximately 20 mini bites; adjust ingredients proportionally for larger or smaller batches.
- Silicone muffin pans work best to prevent sticking; lightly grease metal pans if needed.
- Avoid paper liners, as the bites can stick and break apart.
- Finely chop onions and broccoli for even texture and better flavor distribution.
- Mozzarella is ideal for a mild taste and low sodium, but feel free to use cheddar, a cheese blend, or your favorite melting cheese.
- Add extra seasonings, like smoked paprika or herbs, if preparing for adults.
- Bake until golden brown and slightly firm; undercooked bites may fall apart when removed.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Bites
Achieving perfectly golden and flavorful broccoli and cheese bites requires a few simple tricks.
First, always chop broccoli and onions finely; larger chunks can make bites uneven and prone to falling apart.
Mixing the ingredients thoroughly ensures each bite has a balanced combination of cheese, veggies, and breadcrumbs.
Pressing the mixture firmly into the muffin pan helps the bites maintain their shape during baking.
For added flavor, consider lightly toasting the breadcrumbs beforehand or mixing in herbs such as thyme, parsley, or a hint of smoked paprika.
Using a silicone muffin pan makes removal effortless, and letting the bites cool completely before serving ensures they hold together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions To Impress Guests
These broccoli and cheese bites are versatile and can be served in many ways.
Serve them as a warm appetizer with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or marinara for a crowd-pleasing starter.
They also pair wonderfully with a fresh side salad or soup for a light lunch or dinner.
For kids, pack them in lunchboxes with fruit and whole-grain crackers.
You can even serve them as part of a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs or mini quiches.
The bites are visually appealing and easy to serve at parties, making them a convenient and tasty addition to any menu.
Storage Tips For Longer Freshness
These bites store exceptionally well, making them ideal for meal prep.
Allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
Place the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
For long-term storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until warm and crispy.
Avoid microwaving from frozen, as this can make them soft rather than crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these bites ahead?
Yes! These bites are perfect for meal prep. You can assemble and bake them in advance or freeze them uncooked.
Store baked bites in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for up to two months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
2. What cheese works best?
Mozzarella is ideal for mild flavor and low sodium, but you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.
A sharper cheese like aged cheddar will add more flavor, while a combination provides both creaminess and taste.
3. Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
The texture will remain slightly crisp while still holding the bites together perfectly.
4. Can I add extra vegetables or spices?
Yes! Finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra nutrients. Herbs like parsley, thyme, or smoked paprika can enhance flavor.
Just ensure all vegetables are finely chopped to maintain the right texture.
5. How do I prevent the bites from sticking?
Using a silicone muffin pan is ideal. For metal pans, lightly grease each cavity. Avoid paper liners, as the mixture tends to stick.
Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan also helps them hold their shape while baking.
