If you’re looking for a way to get your kids (or yourself) to eat more veggies, these Broccoli Cheddar Bites are the answer.
They’re crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and packed with cheesy flavor in every bite.
I love keeping a batch of these in the fridge for quick snacks or lunchbox add-ins.
Best of all? They come together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
Why I Love This Recipe
They’re baked, not fried—healthier and mess-free.
Kid-approved and lunchbox-friendly.
Easy to prep ahead and freeze for later.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cooked chopped broccoli – Gives the bites their base and a boost of fiber.
Cheddar cheese – Sharp, melty, and delicious—plus extra on top makes them irresistible.
Ritz crackers – Crushed to act as a binder and add buttery flavor.
Egg – Holds everything together in one perfect bite.
Garlic powder + salt – For added flavor without overpowering.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use well-drained cooked broccoli—too much moisture will make the bites soggy.
Crush the crackers finely for even texture throughout.
Grease the muffin tin well to prevent sticking, or use silicone molds.
Press the mixture firmly into the cups so they hold their shape after baking.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Bites
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 375°F so it’s ready to go once the bites are assembled.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine chopped broccoli, egg, crushed crackers, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, and salt.
Stir until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Fill the muffin tin
Grease a mini muffin tin generously.
Scoop the mixture into about 16 cups, pressing down firmly with your fingers to compact each one.
Step 4: Add cheese and bake
Top each bite with a pinch of extra cheddar.
Bake for 14–16 minutes until golden and crisp on top.
Step 5: Cool slightly
Let the bites cool in the tin for at least 5 minutes before gently removing.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Serve warm on their own, or dip them in ranch or ketchup for extra flavor.
What to Serve It With
Dip them in ranch, ketchup, or honey mustard
Pair with a simple soup or salad for a light lunch
Serve with scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast
Variations / Substitutions
Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack
Add finely chopped cooked bacon or ham
Use crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs instead of Ritz
Mix in some finely grated carrots or zucchini for extra veggies
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
To reheat, pop them in the toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes
They also freeze well—just thaw and reheat when needed
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just steam it first and drain well to remove excess water.
What’s the best cheese for these?
Sharp cheddar works great, but you can use any meltable cheese you love.
Can I make them in a regular muffin tin?
Yes, though they’ll be larger. Add a couple minutes to the baking time.
How do I know when they’re done?
The tops should be golden and slightly crispy, and the edges should pull away from the tin.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely—just store in the fridge or freeze and reheat when ready.
Are these gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free crackers to make them GF.
Do they taste good cold?
Yes! They’re great straight from the fridge or at room temp for lunchboxes.
Final Thoughts
These Broccoli Cheddar Bites are a go-to in my kitchen whenever I want something quick, savory, and satisfying.
They’re the kind of snack that disappears fast—whether you’re feeding toddlers, teens, or just yourself.
