Are you tired of boring, bland appetizers that leave you wanting more? Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these irresistible Broccoli Pepper and Cheese Bites! Packed with vibrant vegetables, melty cheese, and a perfect golden-brown crunch, these little flavor bombs are about to become your new obsession. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a kid-friendly healthy snack, or just craving something deliciously satisfying, these bites are guaranteed to steal the show and have everyone asking for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped broccoli
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a non-stick baking sheet.
- Steam the chopped broccoli for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, diced bell peppers, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Using clean hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into compact bite-sized balls, approximately 1-
- 5 inches in diameter.
- Place the formed bites onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each bite to ensure even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bites are firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to help the bites set and become more stable.
- Transfer to a serving plate and serve warm as an appetizer or snack. Optional: Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Make sure to thoroughly drain and pat dry your steamed broccoli. Excess water can make your bites soggy and prevent them from achieving that desirable crispy exterior.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or mozzarella. For extra flavor, try a blend of cheeses.
- Uniform Size is Key: Use an ice cream scoop or consistently sized hands to create evenly sized bites. This ensures uniform cooking and an attractive presentation.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave some space between each bite to allow hot air to circulate, ensuring crispy edges all around.
- Let Them Rest: Allowing the bites to cool for a few minutes after baking helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with ranch, marinara, or even a spicy aioli for an extra flavor kick. These bites are versatile and can be a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a nutritious snack.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
