Cheesy baked veggie bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
02 -
1 cup breadcrumbs
03 -
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
04 -
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 -
2 eggs
06 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
08 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
09 -
Salt and pepper to taste
10 -
Cooking spray for greasing the baking sheet
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Steam the broccoli florets for about 3-5 minutes until they're tender-crisp. Let them cool down a bit, then chop them up finely.
02 -
In a big mixing bowl, throw in your chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, eggs, and flour. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together really well until it all sticks together nicely.
03 -
Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray.
04 -
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese balls turn a nice golden brown color. If you want them extra crispy, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye on them so they don't burn.
05 -
Let the cheese balls cool just slightly so they firm up a bit, then serve them warm. They're great with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping!
# Notes:
01 -
These broccoli cheese balls make a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish that's both nutritious and delicious.
02 -
For a flavor twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a bit of heat.
03 -
These are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option that still delivers on taste and texture.