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Smoky Broccoli Bites

These crispy broccoli bites are coated in a cheesy, smoky mixture and baked until golden and bubbly. Made with fresh broccoli, sharp cheese, breadcrumbs, and a touch of smoked paprika, they develop a crunchy exterior and a gooey center, perfect for snacking or entertaining. The process is casual, emphasizing texture and flavor with a fun, grown-up twist on a childhood favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh and vibrant
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or your favorite sharp cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for crunch and binding
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika for smoky depth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for brushing
  • to taste salt & pepper adjust to preference

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Spatula
  • Cookie scoop

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Chop fresh broccoli into small, bite-sized florets, about 1-2 inches each.
  3. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then blanch the broccoli for about 1 minute until it turns bright green and slightly softened. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, then pat dry thoroughly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, a pinch of salt and pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix everything together until well combined and sticky enough to form into bites. If it feels loose, add a little more breadcrumbs.
  5. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls or flat patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  6. Lightly brush each bite with olive oil or spray with cooking spray to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and crispy at the edges, with melted, bubbling cheese inside.
  8. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bites rest for about 5 minutes to set. They should be firm, crunchy on the outside, and cheesy inside.
  9. Serve warm, optionally sprinkled with a pinch of flaky sea salt or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. Enjoy these crispy, smoky broccoli bites as a snack or appetizer!

Notes

For extra crunch, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before baking. These bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a hot oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.