Broccoli Bites
Crispy broccoli bites packed with cheese and seasoned stuffing, perfect as a tasty appetizer or snack for gatherings or family favorites with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli according to package directions; drain and place in a bowl.
- Add the crushed seasoned stuffing, grated Parmesan cheese, lightly beaten eggs, softened butter, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place in a greased 15-inch x 10-inch x 1-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 11 to 12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remaining mixture can be placed in a single layer in a freezer container and frozen for up to 1 month.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider adding chopped onions or garlic to the mixture for extra flavor. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer a different taste. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained to avoid sogginess in the bites. If you're short on time, using fresh broccoli can also work; just steam it lightly before combining.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these broccoli bites as a delicious appetizer or a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. They also pair beautifully with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. They make a great addition to any vegetarian recipes collection.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccoli bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, they can be microwaved for a quick snack, but this may affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Bites contains roughly 398 calories, with 13g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 622mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used! Simply chop it into small pieces and steam it lightly before mixing with the other ingredients. This will ensure the bites maintain a good texture and flavor.
How can I make these bites spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the broccoli mixture. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance, and enjoy a zesty twist on this classic recipe!
Can I freeze the broccoli bites before baking?
Absolutely! You can shape the bites and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a quick, easy snack anytime.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).