Description
Keto Broccoli Cheese Bites are a savory, low-carb snack or appetizer that combines tender broccoli with rich cheese and simple keto-friendly binders. These bites are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor. They are ideal for snacking, party platters, or as a side dish, and they fit perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle because they are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats.
Ingredients (Makes about 20–24 bites)
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- Water for blanching
Dairy
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
Binders
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup almond flour
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Fats
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2–3 minutes until just tender and bright green. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, finely chop the broccoli and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture is essential for firm bites.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or olive oil.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Seasonings
Add the eggs to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated. Sprinkle in the almond flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until a thick, cohesive mixture forms.
Step 5: Shape the Bites
Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion the mixture and shape it into small balls or slightly flattened patties. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bites are golden brown and set. For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Step 7: Cool Slightly
Remove from the oven and allow the broccoli cheese bites to cool for 5 minutes. This helps them firm up and enhances their texture.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Air Fryer Method
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the bites in a single layer and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy and golden.
Pan-Fried Method
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter or oil. Cook the bites for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with keto-friendly dipping sauces such as:
- Sugar-free ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy mayonnaise made with avocado oil
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze fully cooked bites for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Bite)
- Net Carbs: 1–2 g
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Keto-Friendly: Yes
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