Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Broccoli Cheese Rounds! They’re the perfect little bites that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—just the way I love my snacks! I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering; my cousin, who claims to hate vegetables, devoured them and asked for the recipe! That’s when I knew I had struck gold. They’re not just delicious but also super easy to whip up, making them an ideal appetizer for any occasion. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked. So, let’s dive into how you can create these mouthwatering delights at home!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or thawed if using frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better for flavor!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use plain or seasoned, depending on your preference)
- 2 large eggs (these help bind everything together)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (for that extra flavor boost)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or more if you’re a garlic lover!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning is key!)
How to Prepare Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Making these Broccoli Cheese Rounds is a breeze, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious appetizer ready in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your Broccoli Cheese Rounds bake evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture on the outside. Trust me, a hot oven is your best friend in this process!
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I like to add the eggs after everything else to keep the mixing process simple. Just mix everything until it’s well combined—don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; that’s how it should be!
Forming the Rounds
Now comes the fun part! With clean hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into small rounds, about the size of a golf ball. This size helps them cook evenly, so aim for uniformity. You can also use a cookie scoop if you want to keep it neat and tidy!
Baking Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this is key, as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze! Place your rounds on the sheet, giving them a little space to breathe. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. To check for doneness, gently press one with your fork; it should feel firm. Once they’re done, let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen—it’s absolutely heavenly!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Broccoli Cheese Rounds turn out perfect every time, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure to chop the broccoli into small, uniform pieces; this helps them cook evenly and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. If you want extra crispiness, consider broiling them for the last couple of minutes—just keep a close eye on them! Also, don’t skip the parchment paper; it truly makes a difference in preventing sticking and keeping the rounds intact. And remember, taste the mixture before forming the rounds—if it needs more seasoning, don’t hesitate to add it! Finally, serve them warm for the best texture and flavor. You’re going to love how these turn out!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delicious Broccoli Cheese Rounds. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes, but this will give you a good idea of what you’re munching on!
- Serving Size: 2 rounds
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 7g
These Broccoli Cheese Rounds are not only a tasty treat but also pack a decent amount of protein and fiber, making them a satisfying option for a snack or appetizer. Enjoy them guilt-free, and remember that these values are just estimates to give you a general idea of what you’re enjoying!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Using frozen broccoli is a great option, especially if you want to save time. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it into your ingredients. This helps prevent your Broccoli Cheese Rounds from becoming soggy. Once it’s well-drained, chop it up a bit if it’s in larger pieces, and you’re good to go!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is pretty rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm them through and regain that crispy texture. You can also microwave them, but they might lose some of that delightful crispiness. So, if you can, reheating in the oven is the way to go!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can totally make these Broccoli Cheese Rounds ahead of time! Just prepare the mixture and form the rounds, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the preheated oven, and voila! You’ll have fresh, delicious rounds without the last-minute rush. Perfect for parties or busy weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip these up in just about 40 minutes, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Great Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and garlic with fresh broccoli creates a delicious taste that everyone will love.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: These scrumptious bites are perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, proving that veggies can be incredibly satisfying!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like spices or different cheeses, to make them uniquely yours!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party appetizer, a snack for the kids, or a side dish for dinner, these Broccoli Cheese Rounds fit the bill!
- Freezer-Friendly: You can make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick, easy snack later on!
Serving Suggestions
These Broccoli Cheese Rounds are delicious on their own, but why not take your meal to the next level with some fantastic pairings? Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love!
- Fresh Salad: Serve these rounds alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.
- Dipping Sauces: Try pairing them with a zesty ranch or a creamy garlic dip for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a fun way to mix things up!
- Soup: These rounds make a delightful companion to a warm bowl of tomato soup or creamy broccoli soup. It’s like a comforting hug in a meal!
- Charcuterie Board: Add them to a charcuterie board filled with meats, cheeses, and crackers for a vibrant appetizer spread that will wow your guests!
- Quinoa or Rice: Serve them over a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice for a satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: For a fun twist, serve these alongside a warm spinach artichoke dip. The combination of flavors is simply divine!
Whatever you choose, these Broccoli Cheese Rounds are sure to elevate your dining experience and leave everyone asking for more!
Call to Action
Now that you’ve got the scoop on making these scrumptious Broccoli Cheese Rounds, I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add any special twists or serve them alongside something delicious? Leave a comment below and let me know! And if you enjoyed this recipe, please take a moment to rate it—your feedback means the world to me. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media, too! Tag me so I can see your beautiful rounds and cheer you on! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Rounds: 7 Delicious Bites You Can’t Resist
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious broccoli cheese rounds that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix broccoli, cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small rounds.
- Place the rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve warm for the best taste.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Great as an appetizer or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rounds
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Broccoli Cheese Rounds, Appetizer, Vegetarian