The delightful crunch of fresh broccoli mixed with ooey-gooey cheese creates an irresistible combination that takes me back to cozy family gatherings. Picture this: you’re hosting a gathering or just having a quiet night in, and you want something scrumptiously satisfying that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Enter my Broccoli Cheese Rounds!
Not only do these little bites pack a punch of flavor, but they also make veggies the star of the show. Perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or even a light lunch, these rounds are made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Just a few minutes of prep and a quick bake transform fresh broccoli into golden, cheesy goodness that’s sure to impress your family or guests.
Join me as I share this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s a delightful alternative when you’re tired of the same old fast food!
Why You'll Love This Broccoli Cheese Rounds
- These Broccoli Cheese Rounds are incredibly easy to make, letting you whip up a delicious snack or appetizer in no time.
- The combination of fresh broccoli and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that both kids and adults will adore.
- Their versatility shines through as they can be served as a delightful appetizer, tasty snack, or even a light meal option.
- Plus, their golden brown appearance and bite-sized shape make them visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
Broccoli Cheese Rounds Ingredients
Get ready to whip up something delicious!
For the Base
• Fresh broccoli florets – the star of the dish, ensuring these rounds are packed with nutrients and flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – adds a creamy richness and enhances the cheesy goodness inside.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – provides a salty kick that complements the other cheeses perfectly.
• Large eggs – act as a binder, keeping your rounds together and fluffy in texture.
• Almond flour – a gluten-free option that helps achieve the perfect consistency.
For the Seasoning
• Garlic powder – brings a subtle savory note that elevates the overall taste of the rounds.
• Onion powder – adds depth to the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning, bringing out the flavors of the broccoli and cheese to their best.
Optional Enhancements
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) – for those who want to add a touch of freshness and a pop of color to their Broccoli Cheese Rounds.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Rounds
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures your Broccoli Cheese Rounds come out perfectly golden and easy to serve!
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Steam or microwave the chopped broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess water and let it cool slightly to avoid burning your fingers while mixing.
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Chop the broccoli finely if necessary. This helps the rounds hold together better and enhances the overall texture, ensuring delicious bites in every mouthful.
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Combine in a large mixing bowl the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended; this mixture should be cohesive and smell irresistible!
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Form the mixture into small rounds or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to give them a bit of space to get nice and crispy.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rounds are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, as the color change is the perfect indicator they are ready!
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Cool the broccoli cheese rounds for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This helps them set before transferring them to a wire rack, preventing any potential breakage.
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Serve warm as a delightful snack or appetizer. Enjoy them alone or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick.
Optional: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Broccoli Cheese Rounds Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these rounds to suit your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a cheese-free experience that’s just as delicious. Nut-based cheeses melt beautifully, adding a creamy texture without the dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a delightful heat that pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness. Spice lovers will appreciate this flavor twist!
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Herb Infusion: Swap the garlic and onion powder for 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil or dill, elevating your rounds with a burst of fresh flavor. This lift in taste will remind you of summer gardens!
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Veggie Boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach to enhance the nutritional content and add a vibrant pop of color. More veggies mean more flavor and nutrition!
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Nutty Flavor: Substitute almond flour with finely ground walnuts or pecans for a unique crunch and a nutty richness that complements the cheese beautifully. These nuts add both texture and a lovely depth of flavor.
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Zesty Zing: Incorporate a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest into the mixture, brightening the flavor of the rounds with a refreshing citrus note. This twist can bring a newfound brightness to every bite!
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Smoky Flavor: Try adding smoked paprika for a lovely, smoky twist that pairs effortlessly with the cheesy profile of the rounds. This variation will leave everyone guessing what that irresistible flavor is!
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Gluten-Free: If you prefer an entirely gluten-free version, swap out the almond flour for a gluten-free bread crumb mixture. This will still yield crunchy and satisfying bites while keeping it gluten-free.
Embrace these variations to craft your perfect Broccoli Cheese Rounds!
Make Ahead Options
These Broccoli Cheese Rounds are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them anytime with minimal fuss! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the chopped broccoli, cheeses, eggs, almond flour, and spices, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. To keep the rounds fresh, simply form the patties and bake them right before serving. If you want to go further, you can shape the rounds and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for delicious, cheesy bites that taste just as amazing!
What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Rounds?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these cheesy delights with complementary flavors and textures that create a memorable meal.
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Garlicky Breadsticks: The crunchy exterior and soft inside of these breadsticks create a delightful contrast with the creamy cheese rounds. Perfect for dipping!
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Crunchy Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens tossed in a light vinaigrette offers a crisp, refreshing balance to the savory rounds. The freshness cuts through the richness of the cheese.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing adds warmth and a soothing texture that complements each bite of the cheesy rounds, making it both comforting and filling.
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Tangy Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt-based dip with herbs provides a zesty kick that enhances the flavor. It’s an ideal contrast to the hot, cheesy bites.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture beautifully contrast the savory Broccoli Cheese Rounds while adding a nutritious twist.
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Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing drink that offers a zesty zing, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of the rounds and refreshing your palate.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! Classic cookies provide a satisfying crunch, making them a delightful dessert after the cheesy goodness.
Each of these pairings perfectly complements the savory flavors of Broccoli Cheese Rounds, turning a simple snack into a feast!
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Fridge: Keep your cooked Broccoli Cheese Rounds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rounds on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover rounds, reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Thawing: If thawing, let them sit in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Broccoli Cheese Rounds, ensure your broccoli is finely chopped to help the rounds hold together and provide a better texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the broccoli when steaming or microwaving, as this can lead to a mushy consistency that affects the final result.
- Mixing the ingredients thoroughly is key; a well-blended mixture means every bite will be deliciously cheesy and flavorful.
- Remember to keep an eye on the rounds while baking, as the cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, and you’re looking for a golden brown finish for the best taste and texture.
Broccoli Cheese Rounds Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli is best for Broccoli Cheese Rounds?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli florets are the best choice for your Broccoli Cheese Rounds. Look for bright green florets without dark spots or yellowing. They should feel firm to the touch and have a strong, fresh smell. Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, but the texture won’t be quite as nice—fresh is always best!
How should I store my leftover Broccoli Cheese Rounds?
For optimum freshness, store your cooked Broccoli Cheese Rounds in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before covering them to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze Broccoli Cheese Rounds?
Very much so! To freeze your Broccoli Cheese Rounds, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label them so you don’t lose track!
How do I reheat frozen Broccoli Cheese Rounds?
To reheat your frozen Broccoli Cheese Rounds, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook them for about 15-20 minutes directly from frozen. This will ensure they’re hot all the way through and regain that crispy texture you love.
Are Broccoli Cheese Rounds safe for pets?
While Broccoli Cheese Rounds are perfect for humans, they’re not ideal for pets. The cheese and eggs can be hard for some pets to digest, and the seasonings may not agree with their stomachs. If you want to share with your furry friend, it’s best to give them plain steamed broccoli instead, which is a healthy treat for most dogs and cats!
What can I do if my Broccoli Cheese Rounds fall apart?
If you’re having trouble with your rounds crumbling, it might be due to insufficient binding. Try adding another egg or a tablespoon more of almond flour to help hold the mixture together. Additionally, make sure the broccoli is finely chopped and properly mixed with the other ingredients. If you find they need to be more cohesive, allow them to chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before baking; this can help enhance their structure.
Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large Eggs
- 1/2 cup Almond flour
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Steam or microwave the chopped broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain excess water and cool slightly.
- Chop the broccoli finely if necessary.
- Combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, eggs, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well blended.
- Form the mixture into small rounds or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool the rounds for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Serve warm as a delightful snack or appetizer.
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