These Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites are a delightful combination of crispy golden exteriors with a cheesy, savory, and tender interior. The broccoli adds a burst of color and nutrition, making each bite feel like a cozy hug.
Perfect for meal prep, these bites can be enjoyed as a quick snack or served as a fun appetizer for gatherings. They are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces or served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. The easy-to-make recipe is a family favorite and sure to satisfy everyone, from kids to adults, with its cheesy, crunchy goodness.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked white rice
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1 cup broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
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1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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2 eggs, beaten
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
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Form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy on the outside.
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Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why These Bites Are So Special
The beauty of Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites lies in their simplicity. By taking two classic ingredients—broccoli and rice—and transforming them into a compact, easy-to-eat form, this recipe becomes a hit with both kids and adults alike. The broccoli, often disliked by picky eaters, takes on a much more approachable form when combined with creamy cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. The breadcrumbs give the bites a satisfying crunch, and the eggs help bind everything together for a smooth, delicious texture.
These bites are not only a convenient way to enjoy the goodness of broccoli but also offer a healthy alternative to traditional deep-fried snacks. They’re baked, so they have fewer calories and less fat, making them a more nutritious option. With the versatility of this recipe, you can make it your own by experimenting with different kinds of cheese, herbs, or seasonings to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites is their versatility. They work just as well as a snack at a party as they do as a side dish for dinner. You can make them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and bake them when you’re ready to serve. This makes them a great option for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal that still tastes great.
Moreover, these bites can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. From classic ranch or marinara to more adventurous options like garlic aioli or honey mustard, there’s a sauce to match every flavor preference. Pairing them with a fresh salad or a light soup is another great way to round out a meal.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Casserole Bites
To ensure that your Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites turn out perfectly, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
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Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets, lightly steamed, provide a better texture and taste compared to frozen broccoli. If using frozen broccoli, be sure to drain any excess water after steaming to avoid sogginess.
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Let the Rice Cool: Using freshly cooked rice can make the mixture too sticky, so it’s best to let it cool before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help prevent the bites from becoming too mushy.
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Don’t Skip the Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs are essential for creating that satisfying crispy outer texture. Opt for panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch, or use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier alternative.
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Add Extra Cheese: While the recipe calls for cheddar and Parmesan, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a richer flavor profile. The more cheese, the better!
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Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your casserole bites as they bake. You want them to be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender inside.
Health Benefits of Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites
While Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites are undeniably delicious, they also pack a nutritional punch. Broccoli is a well-known superfood, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a great addition to any meal, helping to support your immune system, improve digestion, and promote healthy bones.
Rice, especially if you opt for brown rice, provides a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium. Brown rice is a whole grain, which makes it a healthier alternative to white rice as it retains more of its natural nutrients.
By combining these two nutritious ingredients with cheese and breadcrumbs, you’re creating a balanced dish that offers a healthy serving of vegetables, fiber, and protein. Plus, the absence of heavy sauces or frying means that the calorie count is kept to a minimum, making these bites a guilt-free snack or side dish.
How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites can be served in many ways to suit various meals. Here are some ideas for pairing them with other dishes:
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As an Appetizer: These bites make an excellent appetizer for dinner parties or casual gatherings. Serve them alongside a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic butter for added flavor.
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As a Side Dish: Pair these bites with your favorite main dishes, such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty vegetable stir-fry. They complement a variety of proteins and add a cheesy, veggie-packed element to your meal.
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For Meal Prep: These bites are perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch on the weekend, store them in the fridge, and reheat them throughout the week for a quick snack or side dish. You can also freeze them for longer storage, then bake them straight from the freezer when needed.
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Kid-Friendly Meal: If you’re looking for ways to get your kids to eat more vegetables, these bites are a fun and tasty solution. They’re small enough for little hands to grab and are packed with nutritious ingredients. Serve them with a side of carrot sticks or a small salad to complete the meal.
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For Vegetarian or Meatless Meals: These casserole bites are vegetarian-friendly, making them a great option for meatless meals. You can serve them as a stand-alone dish or pair them with other plant-based meals to create a satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites are a wonderful, versatile dish that can easily become a staple in your home. They’re easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual snacks to formal dinners. The combination of broccoli, rice, cheese, and breadcrumbs delivers a delightful texture and flavor, and with the right seasonings, these bites are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Whether you’re looking to serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole Bites offer a healthy and delicious way to enjoy your vegetables without compromising on taste. With their crispy exterior and cheesy interior, these bites are sure to become a family favorite.