Keto Broccoli and Cheese Bites
Discover a delicious and satisfying keto-friendly snack with these homemade Broccoli and Cheese Bites. Combining the nutritious crunch of riced broccoli with gooey melted cheese and a blend of savory seasonings, these bites are fried to crispy perfection. Perfect as a quick snack or a tasty side dish, they offer a low-carb, high-flavor option for anyone following a keto diet. Serve with a side of ranch dressing for an extra touch of flavor, and enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s both filling and flavorful.
Broccoli and Cheese Bites
Ingredients:
- 12 oz bag of riced broccoli (you can also use fresh broccoli florets and rice them yourself if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil (for frying)
Optional for extra flavor:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or chives (for a fresh note)
FREE KETO MEAL PLAN : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or microwave the florets until tender. Let them cool slightly, then chop finely or pulse in a food processor until it resembles riced broccoli.
- If using pre-riced broccoli, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained if frozen. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the riced broccoli, shredded cheese, and egg.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. If you’re using any optional ingredients, add them now.
- Mix Thoroughly:
- Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly. The mixture should be cohesive and slightly sticky. If it feels too dry, you can add a bit more egg or a small amount of water to help bind it together.
- Form Patties:
- Take a small amount of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and form it into thin, flat patties. The thinner they are, the crispier they will become.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat the olive oil or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Patties:
- Place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Drain and Cool:
- Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the broccoli and cheese bites warm with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. You can also serve them with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for added flavor.
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, you can preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the patties for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- If you find the mixture is not holding together well, you can add a small amount of almond flour or coconut flour as a binder.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy broccoli bites! They’re great as a snack or a side dish.
FREE KETO MEAL PLAN : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE
