Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds are not just a tasty treat; they are also a great way to include healthy greens in your snacks or appetizers. These rounds balance flavor and nutrition, making them a hit with both kids and adults. The crunchy texture combined with the gooey melted cheese creates a satisfying bite that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy snack, or trying to get more vegetables into your meals, these broccoli cheese rounds are perfect. Plus, they are simple to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes!
How to Make Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, almond flour, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Scoop out spoonfuls of the mixture and form into rounds.
- Place the rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds can be served warm or at room temperature. They make great appetizers for parties and gatherings. You can serve them with dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or a spicy aioli for added flavor. These rounds also pair well with a simple salad for a light meal. Kids will love them as a nutritious snack between meals, while adults can enjoy them as a healthy side dish.
How to Store Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
If you have leftovers or want to make them ahead of time, storing Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds is easy. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are warm and crisp again. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the uncooked rounds. Just form them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze first before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, you can bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Tips to Make Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh broccoli florets. They will hold better during baking compared to frozen.
Adjust the Cheese: Although cheddar cheese is a great option, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Customize the Seasoning: You can add different spices or herbs according to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning can add a nice twist to the flavors.
Check for Crispiness: All ovens are different, so keep an eye on the rounds while they bake. If you want them extra crispy, leave them in for a couple of extra minutes.
Uniform Size: Make sure to scoop out the mixture uniformly so that they bake evenly. Using a small ice cream scoop can help in achieving this.
Variation
Want to change things up? Here are a few ideas to vary your Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds:
Add Other Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the mix for added color and nutrients.
Protein Boost: You can mix in some cooked and shredded chicken or turkey to increase the protein content and make a heartier snack.
Spicy Option: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture if you like a little heat.
Herbed Version: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives can be added for a fresh flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make these broccoli rounds gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is already gluten-free since it uses almond flour. Make sure that all your other ingredients, especially cheese and spices, are also gluten-free.
2. Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely! These rounds are baked, which makes them a healthier option compared to frying. Baking them gives them the crispy texture without the added oil.
3. What can I serve them with?
Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds are versatile. Serve them with dips like ranch, pesto, or hummus. They also go well with a fresh salad, soup, or as a side with grilled meats.
4. How can I make sure they don’t fall apart?
Properly binding the ingredients is key. Make sure the mixture is well combined, and using an egg helps hold everything together. Avoid overmixing, as it can change the texture.
5. Can I use frozen broccoli?
You can, but fresh broccoli tends to yield better texture and flavor. If you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess water.
Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, delicious snack or side dish. With their cheesy flavor and satisfying crunch, they are sure to become a favorite in your home! Whether you’re preparing them for a gathering or simply for yourself, this easy recipe will have you coming back for seconds. Enjoy your cooking!
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Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and healthy snack that combines crunchy broccoli and gooey cheddar cheese, perfect for appetizers or as a nutritious treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, almond flour, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Scoop out spoonfuls of the mixture and form into rounds.
- Place the rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For best results, use fresh broccoli and feel free to experiment with different cheeses and seasonings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 round
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: broccoli, cheese, appetizers, healthy snacks, vegetarian, baking