Name: Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled); 1 cup finely chopped steamed broccoli; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free); 2 large eggs; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper; olive oil spray (for greasing)

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If you’re on the hunt for a healthy snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are about to become your new go-to! Crispy on the outside, tender in the center, and positively bursting with cheesy goodness, they sneak in plenty of veggies and wholesome quinoa, all in one perfect bite. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a fun and kid-friendly treat to serve at gatherings, the combination of savory broccoli, sharp cheddar, and nutty quinoa is sure to win everyone over. Trust me, they’re every bit as irresistible as they sound!

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a huge shopping list to create flavor-packed Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites. Each ingredient is chosen for both taste and texture, ensuring every bite delivers a delicious balance of cheesy comfort and vibrant vegetables.

Cooked Quinoa (1 cup, cooled): This protein-rich base adds a nutty flavor and helps bind the bites together.
Finely Chopped Steamed Broccoli (1 cup): Steamed until tender, giving these bites wonderful color and a nutrient boost.
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup): Brings rich, melty goodness and that classic comfort-food taste.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, savory kick and helps the bites brown beautifully.
Breadcrumbs or Almond Flour (1/4 cup): Breadcrumbs keep things classic, while almond flour is perfect for a gluten-free version.
Large Eggs (2): Essential for binding everything together in each fluffy, satisfying bite.
Minced Garlic (1 clove): Infuses the bites with a subtle aromatic depth and irresistible flavor.
Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a mild sweetness and brings all the flavors together.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances and balances all the components—don’t skip it!
Black Pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Just a hint adds warmth and peppery zing.
Olive Oil Spray: To keep everything from sticking and ensure that irresistible golden finish.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your mini muffin tin a generous mist of olive oil spray—this not only keeps sticking at bay but also promotes that lovely crisp exterior everyone loves in Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites.

Step 2: Mix the Goodness Together

In a large bowl, bring together the cooked quinoa, chopped steamed broccoli, both cheeses, your breadcrumbs or almond flour, eggs, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or spatula, making sure every little bit of broccoli and cheese is evenly distributed. The mixture should be moist, but not soupy—if it feels dry, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the ingredients to hydrate and bind.

Step 3: Fill and Press the Muffin Tin

Spoon your mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each well to the top. Gently press down with the back of your spoon to compact the mixture—it helps the bites hold their cute shape and ensures they bake up with perfectly golden tops.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tin into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’re looking for the tops to turn a tantalizing golden hue, with the bites set and slightly crispy around the edges. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible cheesy aroma, so keep an eye out—you don’t want to overbake!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let your Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites cool in the pan for about five minutes (this makes them easier to remove). Gently run a butter knife around the edges if needed, then lift them out and serve while warm, or enjoy them at room temperature for snacks on the go.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites

Garnishes

Dress them up with a sprinkle of fresh chives, a dusting of extra Parmesan, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. A little bit of chopped parsley also adds a fresh note and a pop of color that elevates your platter instantly.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving these as a main attraction, pair your Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites with a crisp green salad, creamy tomato soup, or a side of roasted veggies for a balanced, satisfying meal. They’re also perfect alongside simple dips like marinara, ranch, or your favorite yogurt-based sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, skewer a few Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites onto toothpicks and present them on a colorful platter. Stack them in lunch boxes for an easy, portable snack, or package them in parchment for a fun picnic treat. They even make a fantastic kid-friendly lunch with carrot sticks and apple slices on the side!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just let them cool completely before packing away—you’ll love having a savory, veggie-rich snack at the ready all week long.

Freezing

These bites are freezer-friendly, making them a fantastic option for batch cooking. Once fully cooled, arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Then transfer to a zip-top bag or sealed container and freeze for up to 2 months. You can easily grab a few whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, simply bake the Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes straight from the fridge, or 12 to 15 minutes from frozen. Or, microwave in 20–30 second increments until hot. This restores their texture and makes them taste freshly baked!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw the broccoli and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before chopping. This keeps your Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites from becoming soggy and ensures they bake up firm and delicious.

What can I substitute for eggs to make these vegan?

You can use flax eggs or chia eggs in place of chicken eggs. Mix 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to gel, then use as directed. Additionally, use your favorite plant-based cheeses for a full vegan twist.

Are Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites gluten-free?

They can be! Just swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour or your preferred gluten-free breadcrumb alternative, and the bites will be perfectly gluten-free and just as tasty.

Can I add other veggies or different cheese?

Definitely. Chopped spinach, grated carrots, or even finely diced red bell pepper all work well. Feel free to substitute mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a completely different, but equally delicious, flavor profile in your Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites.

How do I prevent the bites from sticking to the muffin tin?

Generously spray the tin with olive oil or use silicone muffin liners. Allowing the bites to cool for a few minutes before removing also helps them release cleanly and keeps their shape intact.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll fall in love with Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites just like I have! They’re simple, versatile, and bursting with flavor—perfect for sharing, meal prepping, or simply treating yourself to a wholesome snack. Don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you expect. Enjoy every bite!

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 20 mini bites 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are a delightful and nutritious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, these mini bites are a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Quinoa Mixture:

1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
1 cup finely chopped steamed broccoli
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
2 large eggs
1 clove garlic (minced)
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
olive oil spray (for greasing)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin with olive oil spray.
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
Fill the muffin tin: Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing down gently to compact.
Bake: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the bites are set.
Cool and serve: Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing. Serve warm or at room temperature.