These crispy, cheesy broccoli bites are a nutritious and flavorful way to enjoy vegetables any time of day.
Packed with protein from eggs and fiber from broccoli and whole wheat breadcrumbs, they make a wholesome, low-carb snack or meal addition.
Quick, easy, and family-friendly, they’re perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or a simple dinner side.
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
Equipment
- 1 mini muffin pan (24-cup)
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Spatula or Spoon
- Oven
- Optional: Parchment Paper or Silicone Liners
Ingredients
- 12 ounces frozen broccoli florets thawed and patted dry
- 4 large eggs beaten
- ¼ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ –1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven Properly: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow the oven to fully preheat while you prepare the ingredients. Preheating ensures that the broccoli bites cook evenly and develop a golden, slightly crispy top. If your oven has a convection setting, you can use it for a slightly quicker and more even bake.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Take 12 ounces of frozen broccoli florets and let them thaw completely. Once thawed, gently pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture prevents the bites from becoming soggy during baking. Chop the broccoli into small, uniform pieces so each bite has a consistent texture and cooks evenly.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, crack 4 eggs and beat them thoroughly using a whisk or fork until smooth. The eggs act as a binding agent and provide protein. Make sure the eggs are fully blended so the mixture will hold together without separating in the oven.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: To the beaten eggs, add 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs. These add fiber, structure, and a slight nutty flavor. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon dried oregano to season the bites. The seasonings will infuse every bite with flavor and aroma.
- Add Cheese for Flavor and Moisture: Gradually fold in 3/4 to 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and enhances the savory taste. Mixing slowly ensures the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the broccoli mixture without clumping.
- Combine Broccoli and Mixture: Carefully fold the chopped broccoli into the egg, breadcrumb, and cheese mixture. Use a spatula to gently toss until all pieces are coated. The mixture should be moist but thick enough to hold its shape when scooped into the muffin pan.
- Prepare the Muffin Pan: Grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan lightly with cooking spray or oil. Alternatively, line it with silicone or parchment liners for easy removal and cleanup.Greasing the pan prevents sticking and helps the bites maintain their shape during baking.
- Fill the Muffin Cups: Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, evenly divide the broccoli mixture into each muffin cup. Press gently to compact slightly, but avoid overfilling, as the bites may spill over during baking. Aim for a uniform size to ensure all bites cook at the same rate.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden brown and the bites feel firm to the touch. An internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) ensures the eggs are fully cooked, following USDA recommendations.
- Cool Before Serving: Once baked, remove the muffin pan from the oven carefully using oven mitts. Allow the broccoli bites to cool for 5–10 minutes before removing them from the pan. Cooling slightly helps them hold their shape and enhances the texture, making them easier to serve or pack for later.
- Serve or Store: Serve warm as a snack, breakfast, or dinner side dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months using a flash-freezing method. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick, satisfying snack or meal addition.
Notes
- Ensure broccoli is well-thawed and patted dry to prevent soggy bites.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for best melt and flavor.
- You can adjust seasoning to taste—add smoked paprika or onion powder for variation.
- Mini muffin pans make uniform bite sizes; a regular muffin pan will work but yield larger portions.
- Leftovers can be enjoyed cold, at room temperature, or briefly reheated.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Bites
To get the perfect texture, make sure the broccoli pieces are chopped finely and evenly.
This ensures each bite cooks through without leaving raw bits or mushy centers.
Using whole wheat breadcrumbs adds a subtle nuttiness and fiber, but you can experiment with panko or gluten-free alternatives for a different crunch.
Don’t overmix the cheese and egg mixture—fold gently to avoid a dense texture.
Finally, allow the bites to cool slightly before serving; this helps them hold their shape while maintaining a tender interior.
Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion
Broccoli bites are incredibly versatile.
Serve them as a healthy snack with a side of Greek yogurt or a light dipping sauce such as hummus, ranch, or a tangy yogurt-herb dip.
For breakfast, pair with scrambled eggs or avocado toast.
They also work beautifully as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or pasta.
These bites are kid-friendly and make a fun addition to lunchboxes, picnics, or party platters.
Storage Tips to Keep Fresh
To store leftovers, transfer cooled broccoli bites to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days.
For longer storage, flash-freeze the bites individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag—this prevents sticking.
Reheat in a microwave for 30–60 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until warmed through.
Avoid covering tightly while reheating in the oven to maintain crispiness on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Chop fresh broccoli into small florets, then lightly steam or blanch for 2–3 minutes to soften. Pat dry thoroughly before mixing to avoid excess moisture in the bites.
2. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Replace whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, almond flour, or crushed gluten-free crackers. Adjust slightly if the mixture feels too wet or dry.
3. Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?
Definitely! Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added for extra flavor and nutrients. Keep the vegetable ratio similar to broccoli to maintain proper texture.
4. How can I make them extra cheesy or flavorful?
Increase the cheese to 1 cup or mix in a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture. Adding extra herbs, garlic, or a pinch of smoked paprika elevates the flavor profile.
5. Are these suitable for meal prep or freezing?
Yes! These bites are perfect for meal prep. Freeze individually on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They reheat quickly for a ready-made breakfast, snack, or side dish anytime.
