Looking for a tasty and nutritious snack that fits your low-carb lifestyle? Look no further than these keto broccoli cheddar bites! They are a simple and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. These cheesy, veggie-packed bites are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a protein replacement. Both adults and kids will enjoy this recipe.
Why You'll Love These Broccoli Cheddar Bites
These keto broccoli cheddar bites are a hit for several reasons:
- Flavor: The classic combination of cheddar cheese and broccoli creates a savory and satisfying taste.
- Health: Loaded with broccoli, cheese, herbs, and spices, these bites are a nutritious snack option. They are low-carb and gluten-free.
- Versatility: Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or meat replacement. They are also a great way to get kids to eat their vegetables!
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these bites in no time.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These broccoli and cheese bites reheat perfectly, making them a great meal prep option.
Ingredients You'll Need
The ingredients list for these keto broccoli and cheese bites is short and sweet. Here's what you'll need:
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli florets will work. Lightly steamed broccoli is recommended for the best results.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a cheesy flavor and helps bind the ingredients.
- Cream Cheese: Adds moisture and helps to bind the ingredients.
- Almond Flour: Used for keto and low-carb diets. It helps to absorb moisture and create a firm texture.
- Eggs: Act as a binder and add richness.
- Spices: Parsley and other spices enhance the flavor.
How to Make Keto Broccoli Cheddar Bites
Here's a step-by-step guide to making these delicious bites:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare the broccoli: Steam broccoli in boiling water or microwave until tender. If steaming, add the broccoli florets to a steamer basket and steam for about 5 minutes, until fully tender. Chop broccoli using a knife or food processor until finely minced. Using a cheese cloth or clean cotton dish towel, ring out all of the liquids from the broccoli WELL!
- Combine ingredients: In a medium size mixing bowl combine the cream cheese, cheese, spices, and eggs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, eggs, almond flour, cheese, parsley, and spices. Mix until well incorporated. Allow the mixture to chill 10 minutes to allow the flour time to absorb all of the moisture.
- Form the bites: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and form into a ball or finger shape. Place on the lined baking sheet and spray or drizzle lightly with oil.
- Bake: Bake for about 15-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them over halfway through.
Tips for the Perfect Bites
- Remove excess moisture: Getting rid of the extra water released from the broccoli is important for the ideal taste and texture. Use a cheese cloth or clean cotton dish towel, ring out all of the liquids from the broccoli WELL!
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Place the bites evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to bake properly.
- Use parchment paper: This prevents the bites from sticking to the pan.
- Get creative with spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Serving and Storing
- Serving: Serve these keto broccoli cheddar bites warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair well with various dips and sauces.
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and place the bites on a baking sheet. Reheat until warmed through.
- Freezing: To freeze, spread uncooked broccoli balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer to a large zip-seal bag and freeze up to 3 months. To bake, place into the oven directly from the freezer, adjusting baking time as needed.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or Monterey Jack.
- Vegetables: Add other chopped vegetables, such as cauliflower, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Spices: Adjust the spices to your liking. Garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes can add extra flavor.
- Flour: I’ve only tested these bites with coconut flour, so I can’t speak to whether or not almond flour would work.
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese and cream cheese alternatives.
Other Keto Recipes to Try
If you're new to Keto try my favorite Sausage Egg and Cheese Bites, they contain less than one net carb per bite and they are perfect for meal prep! One of my favorite easy low carb dinners is this One Pan Cabbage Casserole. It is so easy, cheesy and delicious and it has less than 9 net carbs per serving.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
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