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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by steaming or lightly boiling the **broccoli florets** for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still firm. After they’ve cooled slightly, chop the broccoli into small pieces. You want them to be in bite-sized bits, so they can easily mix into the batter and hold their shape while baking.
#### Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with the **breadcrumbs**, **shredded cheese**, **Parmesan** (or nutritional yeast), **egg** (or flax egg), **chopped onion**, **garlic**, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until it forms a thick, cohesive batter. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold its shape when formed into balls. If it’s too wet, you can add a little extra breadcrumbs to firm it up.
#### Step 3: Form the Bites
Using your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you want to get them perfectly round, you can use a small ice cream scoop or spoon. Aim to make about 16-20 broccoli bites, depending on the size.
#### Step 4: Bake the Bites
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Once preheated, lightly spray the tops of the broccoli bites with a bit of olive oil to help them crisp up while baking. Bake the bites for **15-20 minutes**, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Halfway through, flip them over to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the bites are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These bites are fantastic served warm with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli for dipping.
### Tips for Perfect Broccoli Bites:
1. **Use fresh broccoli**: Steaming fresh broccoli helps maintain its vibrant color and texture. If you use frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
2. **Make it vegan**: Use plant-based cheese and a flax egg to make this recipe completely vegan while still keeping the cheesy flavor and texture.
3. **Add flavor**: Feel free to get creative with your spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or garlic powder can all take these bites to the next level.
4. **Make ahead**: You can prepare these bites in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving for the best crispy texture.
5. **Freezer-friendly**: These bites freeze well, too! After forming the bites, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes when ready to serve.
### Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Bites:
– **Healthy**: Packed with broccoli and other wholesome ingredients, these bites are a nutritious snack or side dish option.
– **Cheesy goodness**: A combination of melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs creates the perfect cheesy, savory flavor.
– **Versatile**: Great as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Pair them with different dips for even more variety!
– **Family-friendly**: Even kids who are picky about vegetables will love these cheesy broccoli bites. They’re perfect for sneaking in some extra greens.
– **Quick and easy**: Ready in under 30 minutes, these bites are a perfect weeknight meal addition or a quick weekend snack.
These **Cheesy Baked Broccoli Bites** are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them as a snack at a party, a side dish for dinner, or a tasty bite for meal prep, they’re a great way to enjoy broccoli in a whole new way. Give them a try today and see how easy it is to turn a simple vegetable into a cheesy, crispy delight!
