Scrumptious Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites Recipe for Snack Lovers

Crispy quinoa bites with broccoli cheddar deliver a seriously addictive snack that will make you forget all about boring appetizers.

Packed with wholesome ingredients, these little morsels combine protein-rich quinoa and vibrant green vegetables in one perfect package.

Cheesy and golden, they emerge from the oven looking irresistibly crunchy and inviting.

Each bite promises a delightful blend of nutty quinoa, sharp cheddar, and tender broccoli that melts together beautifully.

Small yet mighty, these nibbles work perfectly as party fare or a quick afternoon pick-me-up.

Nutritious and simple to prepare, they prove that healthy eating can be seriously delicious.

You won’t be able to stop at just one of these incredible bites.

What Makes Broccoli Bites So Popular Lately

• Conquer Meal Prep: These quinoa bites are perfect for prepping ahead, storing easily in the fridge or freezer, making busy weekdays a breeze.
• Boost Nutrition Sneakily: Pack a powerful protein punch with quinoa and broccoli, creating a delicious way to enjoy vegetables without feeling like you're eating health food.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Bite-sized portions and cheesy flavor make these a hit with children, transforming nutritious ingredients into an irresistible snack or lunch option.
• Versatile Serving Superstar: Enjoy as a quick breakfast, protein-packed school lunch, after-school snack, or appetizer that impresses at potlucks and family gatherings.

What’s in Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites

• Quinoa: A protein-packed, gluten-free grain that provides a nutritious foundation for the bites.
• Broccoli: A green vegetable that adds fresh flavor and healthy nutrients to the recipe.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent to hold the ingredients together.
• Cheddar Cheese: Offers a rich, tangy flavor and helps create a creamy texture.

• Flour: Helps to create structure and bind the ingredients.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provide additional depth and savory seasoning to the bites.

• Cooking Spray or Oil: Ensures the bites do not stick to the muffin tin and helps achieve a crispy exterior.

Directions for Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F (180°C), creating the perfect toasty environment for your delicious quinoa bites.

Step 2: Mix Magical Ingredients

• Quinoa
• Broccoli
• Eggs
• Cheddar cheese
• Flour
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Blend everything together until the mixture looks perfectly combined and promising.

Step 3: Fill Muffin Tin Pockets

Scoop the mixture into a greased muffin tin, filling each pocket with about two tablespoons of the heavenly mixture. Make sure they’re evenly distributed for consistent cooking.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. Watch for those delightful edges to turn a gorgeous light brown – that’s your signal they’re ready!

Step 5: Release and Cool

Once baked, gently run a knife around the edges of each bite to help them pop out smoothly. Let them cool for a few minutes to set their shape.

Step 6: Store and Enjoy

Refrigerate your quinoa bites for up to a week, or freeze them in sealed bags for up to 3 months. Perfect for quick snacks or make-ahead meals!

Tips to Improve Your Broccoli Cheddar Bites

• Add a splash of milk or water to prevent dry bites and ensure a creamy, tender texture.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for more complex taste profiles.
• Use parchment paper liners or generously grease muffin tins to guarantee easy removal of bites.
• Swap some quinoa with finely chopped kale or spinach to increase vegetable content and add extra nutrients.
• Double the batch and freeze individual portions for quick, protein-packed snacks or breakfast on busy mornings.

Different Ways to Make Broccoli Cheddar Bites

• Spicy Jalapeño Popper Quinoa Bites: Add diced jalapeños and cream cheese to the original mixture for a kick of heat and creamy texture.
• Mediterranean Quinoa Bites: Incorporate feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped spinach for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Bacon Cheddar Ranch Quinoa Bites: Mix in crispy bacon bits and ranch seasoning to create a savory, protein-packed version of the original recipe.
• Mushroom Swiss Quinoa Bites: Blend sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an earthy, umami-rich alternative that vegetarians will love.

Good Matches for Broccoli Quinoa Bite Platters

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Enjoy a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the cheesy richness and complements the broccoli's green notes.
• Create Fresh Salad Companion: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the bites' hearty texture and add a zesty, refreshing contrast.
• Serve with Tangy Dipping Sauce: Whip up a quick Greek yogurt sauce with fresh herbs like dill or chives to provide a cool, creamy accompaniment that enhances the quinoa bites' savory flavor profile.
• Match with Sparkling Water: Select a citrus-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate and add a bright, effervescent element to the meal.

How to Store Broccoli Bites the Right Way

• Place cooled broccoli cheddar quinoa bites in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• Arrange bites on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months to maintain best quality and taste.
• Warm bites in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, use a microwave for 30-45 seconds, checking to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

• Are these quinoa bites kid-friendly?

Yes! These bites are perfect for children. They’re packed with nutrition from quinoa and broccoli, and the cheese makes them tasty and appealing to kids.

• Can I make these bites gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend like almond or rice flour to make these bites gluten-free friendly.

• Are these quinoa bites good for meal prep?

Definitely! These bites are excellent for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick, healthy snacks or protein-packed breakfast options.

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites Recipe

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4.6 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Savory broccoli cheddar quinoa bites offer a delightful fusion of nutrition and flavor, packed with protein-rich ingredients. Crispy edges and cheesy centers make these mini-morsels an irresistible snack you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa (cooked)
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 2 large eggs

Binding Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly rinse quinoa under cold water to remove any bitter coating, then drain completely.
2. Finely chop broccoli into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the mixture.
3. In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk eggs until smooth, then incorporate shredded cheddar, quinoa, broccoli, flour, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring until ingredients are evenly blended.
4. Generously grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
5. Carefully spoon the quinoa mixture into each muffin cavity, filling them about 3/4 full for optimal texture and rise.
6. Place the muffin tin in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until edges turn golden brown and tops become slightly crisp.
7. Remove from oven and allow bites to rest for 5 minutes, which helps them set and makes removal easier.
8. Gently loosen edges with a small knife, then carefully extract each bite from the tin.
9. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents condensation and maintains crisp texture.
10. For storage, place cooled bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze in sealed bags for 3 months.

Notes

• Prep quinoa in advance by cooking and cooling it before mixing to prevent soggy texture and ensure better binding of ingredients.
• Swap cheese for dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese to make the recipe suitable for plant-based diets.
• Enhance flavor by adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives, which bring freshness and depth to the bites without overwhelming the main ingredients.
• Use silicone muffin trays for easier removal and minimal sticking, reducing the need for excess oil and making cleanup a breeze.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 95 kcal
• Sugar: 0.6 g
• Sodium: 145 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 1.3 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg