These Broccoli Cheese Bites are a fun and tasty snack that combines tender broccoli and gooey cheddar cheese, deep-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or as a side dish, these crispy bites are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re craving a cheesy appetizer or looking to make vegetables a bit more exciting, these broccoli cheese bites are an easy and crowd-pleasing choice.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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1 cup broccoli florets
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1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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Salt, to taste
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Pepper, to taste
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Oil for frying
Directions
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Cook the Broccoli:
In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook covered for about 5 minutes, until firm but tender. Drain the broccoli and set aside to cool. -
Make the Cheese Mixture:
In another saucepan, melt the Cheddar cheese over low heat. Stir in the cooked broccoli, then allow the mixture to cool and thicken for about 15 minutes. -
Prepare the Coating:
In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with salt and pepper. Spread the breadcrumb mixture onto a large piece of wax paper. -
Form the Bites:
Using your hands, form the broccoli and cheese mixture into small balls, then roll each ball in the breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly coated. -
Fry the Bites:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully drop the broccoli cheese balls into the hot oil and fry for about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the bites and drain on paper towels. -
Serve:
Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as an appetizer or snack.
Nutrients
(Approximate per serving, based on 1 bite)
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Calories: 80
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Fat: 5g
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Protein: 3g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugars: 1g
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Sodium: 150mg
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Cholesterol: 15mg
The Allure of Broccoli and Cheese
Broccoli and cheese is a classic combination that has been a favorite pairing for decades. The slightly bitter, earthy flavor of broccoli is beautifully complemented by the rich, creamy taste of cheddar cheese. This pairing not only makes for a satisfying contrast in flavors but also offers a balance of nutrients and comfort. Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet. When combined with the delicious, melty cheese, the result is a snack that is both indulgent and nutritious.
Broccoli Cheese Bites take this well-loved combination and turn it into something fun, bite-sized, and easy to eat. The deep frying process creates a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside soft and cheesy, making each bite an enjoyable experience. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these bites offer a creative way to enjoy your vegetables.
A Crunchy, Golden Exterior
What makes Broccoli Cheese Bites stand out is the contrast in textures. The breading is the star of the show when it comes to creating that satisfying crunch. Breadcrumbs are used to coat the broccoli and cheese mixture, providing a golden, crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy interior. The coating is seasoned with salt and pepper, which enhances the overall flavor of the bites, making each one a flavorful mouthful.
Frying the bites at the right temperature—375°F (190°C)—is key to achieving the perfect crispy texture. At this temperature, the breadcrumbs turn golden brown, and the cheese inside melts just enough to create a gooey, satisfying filling. The deep-frying process ensures that the bites remain crisp and crunchy, giving you that irresistible crunch with every bite. The result is a perfectly fried snack that combines a tender interior with a crisp exterior, making these bites highly addictive.
The Flavorful Filling
While the breading provides the crunch, the filling is where the magic truly happens. The broccoli and cheese mixture inside the bites is a simple yet flavorful combination. The broccoli is first steamed until it’s tender but still holds its shape. It’s then mixed with melted cheddar cheese, which binds the ingredients together and creates a rich, creamy filling. The melted cheese coats the broccoli, making the vegetable taste even more indulgent and giving it a comforting, velvety texture.
The addition of cheddar cheese is crucial for balancing the flavors. Its sharp, tangy taste enhances the broccoli, making it more enjoyable to eat, especially for those who might be less enthusiastic about eating vegetables. The cheese not only adds flavor but also ensures that the filling holds together well during the frying process. This mixture of broccoli and cheese results in a savory, satisfying center that perfectly complements the crispy exterior.
A Versatile Snack for Any Occasion
Broccoli Cheese Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different settings. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a fun family meal, or simply looking for a snack, these bites are a great option. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for parties, where guests can easily grab a few and enjoy them with a dip or sauce of their choice.
For an extra burst of flavor, these bites can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. A classic ranch dressing or a tangy BBQ sauce pairs well with the savory bites, but you could also opt for a creamy garlic sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo for a more adventurous twist. The versatility of these bites allows you to customize the dipping sauces according to your preferences, making them even more enjoyable.
These bites also make an excellent side dish for meals like chicken, burgers, or pasta. They add a fun, crunchy element to any dinner, and their cheesy filling ensures they are loved by both kids and adults. If you’re looking for a way to get kids to eat more vegetables, these Broccoli Cheese Bites are a great solution. The crispy, cheesy coating hides the broccoli inside, making it easier for children to enjoy this nutritious vegetable without hesitation.
A Fun Way to Eat Your Vegetables
Getting people, especially kids, to eat vegetables can be a challenge. But when you transform vegetables into something fun and delicious, like these Broccoli Cheese Bites, they become much more appealing. The crispy texture and cheesy filling make these bites a fun and enjoyable way to eat your greens. By frying the broccoli and pairing it with cheese, you make the vegetable more exciting, encouraging even the pickiest eaters to try something new.
The fact that these bites are easy to pick up and eat with your hands adds to their appeal, making them perfect for kids who might not enjoy eating vegetables on a plate. The rich flavor and crispy texture are a hit with everyone, making them a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet in a way that’s both tasty and fun.
Simple and Quick to Prepare
One of the best aspects of Broccoli Cheese Bites is how easy and quick they are to make. Unlike many deep-fried recipes that require complex preparations, these bites come together in a simple, straightforward manner. The broccoli is steamed, the cheese is melted, and the mixture is rolled into small balls, making the process quick and hassle-free. The breading and frying stages are just as easy, with the bites requiring only a few minutes in the fryer to become crispy and golden.
The minimal preparation time makes these bites a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. They are also a great option for meal prep, as you can make a large batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for later use. When you’re ready to serve them, simply reheat them in the oven or fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Storage and Leftover Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers, these Broccoli Cheese Bites store well in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To freeze, place the cooked and cooled bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer the bites to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or fryer to bring back their crispy texture.
Reheating is simple—just place the bites in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or heat them in a pan with a bit of oil until they are crispy again. This makes them a great make-ahead snack or appetizer that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed later.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Crowd-Pleasing Snack
In conclusion, Broccoli Cheese Bites are a delicious, fun, and easy snack that will please anyone who loves the combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The crispy exterior, tender broccoli, and gooey cheese filling make these bites an irresistible treat that is perfect for parties, family dinners, or as an everyday snack. Their versatility allows for customization with various dips and sauces, making them even more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a way to get kids to eat more vegetables or simply want a tasty appetizer, Broccoli Cheese Bites are an ideal choice. Their quick preparation, satisfying texture, and delicious flavor make them a must-try for any occasion.