Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever craved a snack that’s both crispy and cheesy yet won’t derail your low-carb diet? Introducing Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds! These delightful bites combine the rich, savory flavors of cheese with the satisfying crunch of perfectly roasted broccoli. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these rounds will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
As someone who has always had a love for comfort food, I was determined to create a version that aligned with my health goals. The first time I made these Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds, the aroma wafting through my kitchen filled me with nostalgia. They reminded me of family gatherings where cheesy snacks were the highlight. Perfect for parties or casual evenings at home, these rounds are an enjoyable way to sneak in some greens while indulging in cheesy goodness. Trust me; your taste buds will dance with excitement!
Key Ingredients For Low‑Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose vibrant green florets for the best flavor and texture; they should be firm with no yellowing.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to enhance the flavor profile; it melts beautifully and adds richness.
- Eggs: Use large eggs as a binding agent that helps hold everything together while adding protein.
- Almond Flour: This low-carb alternative acts as a great binder and adds a nutty flavor; fine-ground works best.
- Garlic Powder: A teaspoon enhances the overall taste; fresh garlic can be used if preferred.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these essentials bring out the flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Low‑Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Second Step : Prepare the Broccoli
Chop fresh broccoli florets into small pieces, about the size of a pea. Steam them lightly for about 3-4 minutes until just tender but still bright green.
Third Step : Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Fourth Step : Form Rounds
Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into small rounds or patties. Place each round on the prepared baking sheet.
Fifth Step : Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy around the edges. Halfway through baking, flip them gently for even crispiness.
Serving suggestion: Transfer to plates and serve warm as an appetizer or healthy snack.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Lightly steaming ensures it retains its texture; overcooking may make it mushy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged shreds which often contain anti-caking agents.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick if desired.
Cooking Instructions
To prepare Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works best), and a beaten egg. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you enjoy, such as garlic powder or paprika.
Next, form the mixture into small rounds or patties using your hands. Place each round on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are crispy and golden brown. Once done, let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as a delightful appetizer at parties or as a side dish with your main course. They also pair perfectly with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or garlic aioli.
For a simple meal, consider serving these rounds alongside grilled chicken or fish. You can even add them to a salad for extra crunch and flavor. The versatility of this dish makes it an excellent choice for any occasion.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of broccoli and cheese provides essential vitamins and minerals while keeping the carb count low. This makes it an ideal snack or meal option for those following a low-carb diet.
You can expect a good amount of protein from the cheese and fiber from the broccoli, making these rounds satisfying and healthy. Enjoy guilt-free snacking knowing that you’re fueling your body with nutritious ingredients.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through and crispy again.
For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Place unbaked rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What can I serve with Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds?
These delicious Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds complement many dishes beautifully. You can serve them as a standalone snack or appetizer during gatherings. They also work well as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. For added flavor, pair them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or spicy mayo to enhance your dining experience.
Can I make Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds ahead of time by shaping the mixture into rounds and storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking for convenience later on. Just ensure you follow proper storage methods to maintain freshness.
Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
Yes! There are several variations you can experiment with when making Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds. Feel free to add different types of cheese like feta or pepper jack for unique flavors. You may also incorporate other vegetables such as cauliflower or zucchini for added nutrition and taste.
How do I know when my Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds are done?
Your Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds are ready when they turn golden brown around the edges and feel firm to the touch. Make sure to keep an eye on them while baking; ovens can vary in temperature, so checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark is advisable.
Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings (18 rounds) 1x
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Low-Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds are a delicious, guilt-free snack that perfectly combines cheesy richness with the crunch of roasted broccoli. These golden bites are not only low in carbs but also a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing flavor. Serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering or enjoy them as a satisfying snack any time of day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Steam the chopped broccoli for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, eggs, almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Form the mixture into small rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should remain firm. Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for unique flavors.
Leave a Comment