Super Bowl Party Food Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Cheesy Broccoli Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Highlighted under: Everyday Kitchen

I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these Cheesy Broccoli Bites have become a fan favorite in my home. They are absolutely packed with flavor and are easy to make, which means I can spend more time cheering for my team instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, these bites offer a delicious way to incorporate vegetables into our game day spread, delighting everyone from kids to adults. Trust me, these are a must-try for your next gathering!

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:13:35.327Z

Making these Cheesy Broccoli Bites was a delightful experiment for our Super Bowl gathering. I always seek recipes that provide a twist, and using broccoli in a tasty snack was a hit. The key to maximizing flavor is using fresh garlic and a blend of cheeses, which enhances the overall taste while keeping the bites cheesy and gooey.

During testing, I discovered that adding breadcrumbs not only helps improve the texture but also gives a great crunch that complements the softness of the broccoli. To elevate the experience even further, serve them with a dipping sauce, and watch them disappear!

        Why You Will Love These Bites
        Cheesy goodness that pulls apart with every bite
Healthy broccoli combined with flavorful cheese
Perfect finger food for any game day gathering

      

Mastering the Broccoli Prep

Steaming the broccoli is a crucial step in achieving the right texture for your Cheesy Broccoli Bites. Make sure to steam the florets just until they are tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Overcooking can lead to mushy bites, so keeping an eye on them is essential. You want them to hold their shape while still being soft enough to mix well with the cheeses and breadcrumbs.

After steaming, let the broccoli cool slightly before adding it to the mix. This cooling period not only helps prevent the eggs from cooking when added but also makes it easier to handle the mixture when forming the bites. A quick tip: chop the florets into smaller pieces to ensure even mixing and more cohesive bites.

Cheese Choices and Substitutions

The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a delightful flavor and texture in these bites. Cheddar brings a sharp, tangy taste, while mozzarella offers a stretchy, gooey quality. If you prefer a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like pepper jack for a kick, or gouda for a smokier essence. Just ensure that the total cheese volume remains similar for the right consistency.

For a healthier alternative, you can swap out regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat or almond flour, which adds different nutritional benefits. If gluten is a concern, using gluten-free breadcrumbs can allow everyone to enjoy these bites without worry. Remember to adjust the amount slightly, as different breadcrumbs may absorb moisture differently.

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Broccoli Bites

2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil for baking

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Broccoli

In a medium saucepan, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, beaten egg, and season with salt and pepper.

Shape the Bites

Using your hands, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Lightly spray the bites with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Broccoli Bites are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with a dipping sauce elevates your serving game. Consider a tangy ranch or a zesty marinara to complement the cheesy flavors. Not only do these dips enhance taste, but they also make the bites extra appealing, especially to kids who might be more inclined to eat their greens when they come with a side of sauce!

They can also be the star of a larger appetizer spread for your Super Bowl party. Serve them alongside savory wings, nachos, or sliders on a festive platter. This variety makes it easy for guests to mingle and snack, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, which is unlikely, store the Cheesy Broccoli Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just pop them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through, which will help to restore their crispy exterior.

To make ahead, you can form the bites and freeze them before baking. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until golden brown.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these Cheesy Broccoli Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape and bake them when you're ready to serve!

→ Can I freeze these bites?

Absolutely! Assemble the bites and freeze them before baking. When ready to serve, bake directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What dipping sauce goes well with these bites?

A ranch or marinara dipping sauce pairs wonderfully with these cheesy bites. You can also try a spicy aioli for a bit of heat.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed cornflakes or oats for a gluten-free version.