Looking for a delicious way to sneak more vegetables into your diet? These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Nuggets are the perfect solution! They are healthy, kid-friendly, and can be made effortlessly at home. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack or a savory appetizer for your next gathering, these cheese-filled broccoli bites are sure to delight everyone. The combination of tender broccoli and gooey cheese, coated in a crispy breadcrumb layer, provides a satisfying crunch that appeals to both children and adults alike.
Ingredients
Scale:
2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup cauliflower florets, finely chopped (optional)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large egg, beaten (or flax egg for vegan option)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Olive oil spray or cooking oil for greasing
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the finely chopped broccoli (and cauliflower, if using) for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Drain and rinse under cold water. Squeeze out excess water.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
Pour the beaten egg into the mixture and mix well.
Using your hands, scoop out a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a nugget, about 1-2 inches in size. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray the tops of the nuggets with olive oil spray.
Bake the nuggets in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through.
Once baked, remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
