Broccoli-Cheese Bites
Savory, cheesy broccoli bites packed with tender greens and sharp cheddar—perfect as a snack or side for parties, family meals, or game‑day gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 9x13‑inch cake pan.
- Steam the frozen chopped broccoli for 5 minutes until partially cooked, then drain well.
- Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Add flour, salt, milk, and baking powder, whisking until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, and the drained broccoli.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F until the corners are browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter. If you don't have cheddar cheese, any melty cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack can work as a substitute. Additionally, using fresh broccoli instead of frozen is fine; just ensure it is steamed until tender before mixing it in. This recipe also adapts well to a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
These broccoli-cheese bites make a great appetizer or side dish, especially when served with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or even a homemade salsa. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or could be enjoyed as part of a brunch spread alongside dishes like Baby Stuffed Potatoes. For a complete meal, serve them with a side of soup, such as Fancy Potato Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the broccoli-cheese bites to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain their texture. You can also microwave them for faster reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cheese Bites contains roughly 2145 calories, with 27g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 144g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (68% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 make these broccoli-cheese bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead of time and reheat them just before serving. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
To make this recipe egg-free, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana. Alternatively, a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) works well as a binding agent.
Can I freeze the broccoli-cheese bites?
Yes, these bites freeze well! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
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).