These golden, crunchy broccoli cheese bites are the perfect blend of nutritious and indulgent—melty cheese centers wrapped in seasoned broccoli and breadcrumbs, ideal for snacking, party platters, or dipping into your favorite sauce. Whether baked or fried, they’re a flavorful and satisfying option for kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy broccoli cheese bites are the ideal snack or appetizer: crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with cheesy vegetable flavor. They’re a clever way to enjoy more greens and are incredibly versatile—serve them at gatherings, tuck them into lunchboxes, or enjoy them as a light meal. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and can be made ahead for convenience.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups finely chopped steamed broccoli
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
¼ cup grated parmesan
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Olive oil spray or neutral oil for frying/baking
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

directions

In a large bowl, combine the steamed and finely chopped broccoli, cheddar, mozzarella, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and shape them into balls.
Roll each ball in additional breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
For frying: Heat a shallow layer of oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the bites for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
For baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve with your preferred dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 bites.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add a kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño for some heat.
Change the cheese: Try pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss for a different flavor.
Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in both the mixture and the coating.
Bake in a muffin tin: Press the mixture into a mini muffin tin for uniform shapes and no flipping required.
Include meat: Add cooked crumbled bacon or finely chopped ham for a heartier version.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place cooked bites on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheat refrigerated or frozen bites in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes until crisp and warmed through. Microwaving is possible but may reduce crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, just steam and chop it thoroughly. Be sure to drain well to remove excess moisture.

How do I make them more crispy?

For extra crunch, double-coat the bites in breadcrumbs or use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture or shape the bites and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these?

Ranch, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or a tangy yogurt dip all pair well with the cheesy, savory flavor.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely. Baking yields a slightly lighter result and avoids oil splatter—just be sure to flip halfway and spray with oil.

Are these good for kids?

Yes, they’re a fun and tasty way to include vegetables in kids’ meals. You can even shape them into fun forms.

How do I keep them from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture isn’t too wet and that the bites are compact when shaping. Adding more breadcrumbs can help bind them.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, finely chopped spinach, cauliflower, or carrots can be mixed in for variety.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Yes, they freeze well either before or after cooking. Reheat directly from frozen in an oven or air fryer.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar and mozzarella give a nice balance of flavor and meltiness, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

Conclusion

Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites are a flavorful, crowd-pleasing snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With their crunchy exterior and cheesy vegetable-filled center, they offer a delicious way to enjoy more greens. Whether you fry or bake them, these bites are a guaranteed hit at any table.