© Original Recipe By Sweets & Wonders ©
🥦🧀 Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds: A Healthy Snack You’ll Love
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a snack that combines the crunch of crispy broccoli with the cheesy goodness of a savory bite, then this low carb broccoli cheese snack is your new best friend. Packed with nutritious broccoli and melted cheese, these cheese bites are perfect for anyone who wants a healthy snack without sacrificing flavor. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, they make for a satisfying, guilt-free treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a wholesome snack to boost your day, this recipe hits all the right notes.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
- One-pot or one-pan recipe – Easy cleanup and minimal fuss.
- Healthy ingredients – Packed with nutrients from broccoli and wholesome cheese.
- Crispy texture – Achieve it effortlessly with an air fryer or oven.
- customizable – Add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor.
3. Ingredient Notes
To maximize flavor and nutrition, selecting high-quality ingredients is key. Fresh broccoli florets provide a crisp texture and vibrant color, while a good melting cheese like Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo enhances the crispy exterior. Use parmesan cheese for added savory depth or cheddar for a richer bite. For binding, eggs help hold everything together, while a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika elevates the flavor profile. Opting for organic or grass-fed cheese can make these cheese bites even healthier and more flavorful.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
For perfectly crispy broccoli cheese rounds, having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference. An air fryer like the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics ensures crispy results without excess oil. A high-quality nonstick cookware set streamlines cooking and makes cleanup easy. You’ll also find a stand mixer helpful for preparing the mixture, and a baking sheet essential for oven-based baking. Consider investing in tools that enhance your cooking experience!
5. How to Make Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Prepare the Broccoli
Start by chopping fresh broccoli into small, manageable pieces. Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender, about 3-4 minutes, then drain thoroughly. As you work, the aroma of fresh broccoli should fill your kitchen—earthy and inviting.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, shredded cheese, beaten eggs, and seasonings. Mix until well incorporated. The mixture should be sticky but manageable, glistening with melted cheese—this indicates everything is binding well together.
Form the Cheese Bites
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form the mixture into small rounds, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in your air fryer basket. The formed rounds should be uniform for even cooking and uniform crunch.
Cook to Crispy Perfection
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should turn golden brown and crispy on the edges, with a tempting cheesy aroma filling your kitchen.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Drain the broccoli thoroughly before mixing—moisture can prevent the bites from crisping properly.
- Use grated cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or cheddar, for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer or baking sheet; give each cheese bite space to crisp evenly.
- For extra crunch, lightly spray the rounds with cooking spray before baking or air frying.
- Allow the cheese bites to cool for a few minutes after cooking to set their crispy exterior. Enjoy the perfect crunch that rivals fried snacks!
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize this healthy snack, consider:
- Vegan version: Use vegan cheese and flaxseed eggs as replacements.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
- Extra nutrition: Incorporate chopped nuts or seeds into the mixture.
- Vegetarian—add finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for more layers of flavor and nutrients.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crunchy exterior intact.
9. FAQ
Can I make these in the oven instead of the air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
Are these suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, they are low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making them ideal for a keto-friendly snack.
How do I prevent them from falling apart?
Ensure your broccoli is drained well, and use enough cheese and eggs to bind the mixture firmly. Chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before forming can also help.
Can I freeze these cheese bites?
Yes, freeze uncooked or cooked cheese bites in a single layer, then store in a zip-top bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer for best results.
10. Conclusion
Enjoy these healthy snack options that combine the crispy texture with cheesy decadence, all while being low in carbs. They’re perfect for snacking guilt-free at any time of day. Easy to make, customizable, and irresistibly tasty, these crispy broccoli cheese rounds will become a staple in your snack rotation. Give it a try today and savor a delightful, nutritious bite whenever the craving strikes!
Print
Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds Healthy Snack
Crispy, cheesy broccoli rounds perfect for a nutritious snack or appetizer.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 rounds
Ingredients
Scale- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheeses, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
- Form mixture into small rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or refrigerated for later.
Notes
- For added flavor, incorporate chopped herbs like parsley or chives.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for quicker prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Healthy snack
- Diet: Low carb, keto-friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 round
- Calories: 80 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
