Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds (Low Carb Snack)
As the chill of autumn settles in, I find comfort in the savory warmth of freshly baked goodies. Cue the vivid green of broccoli rice mingling with rich, creamy cheddar cheese—what could be more comforting? Each bite of these Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds takes me back to those cozy family gatherings, where laughter bubbled just like the cheese in the oven. Whether you’re in need of a quick snack or a delightful appetizer for your next gathering, these rounds make for an easy weeknight snack that can be enjoyed by all. Little bites of golden, crunchy goodness you can dip into ranch—this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: This recipe comes together in a snap, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous snack cravings.
- Low carb: Enjoy a delicious treat without the guilty carbs, making them perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
- Family-friendly: These rounds are a hit with kids and adults alike, turning healthy eating into a fun and tasty experience.
- Versatile: Eat them as a standalone snack or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether for game night or gatherings, the crispy texture and cheesy taste will keep everyone coming back for more!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients
- 1 (10oz) bag frozen broccoli rice* (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (not the pre-shredded)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp almond flour
- Seasoning to taste (I use garlic salt)
Let’s Make It Together
- Begin by cooking the broccoli rice in the microwave according to the package directions. This will bring out its vibrant flavor and soften it for the perfect bite.
- Once cooked, take a fine strainer and drain the broccoli rice, squeezing out as much of the excess liquid as possible. Set aside to cool—patience is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Preheat your oven to a cozy 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure easy cleanup and a crispy finish!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli rice, freshly shredded cheese, egg, almond flour, and your choice of seasoning. I love using garlic salt to elevate the flavor to a savory delight.
- Roll the mixture into about 16 small balls and place them evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Smoosh them gently with your hands to flatten each round a bit—because a little smoosh makes them crispier!
- Slide the baking sheet into the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until they start to turn golden brown.
- After the first bake, flip each round over and continue baking for an additional 8-10 minutes until they achieve that crispy, irresistible perfection.
- Serve warm, either alone or with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. Delight in that cheesy goodness!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Zesty Spinach Feta: Add a handful of fresh spinach and some crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. The creamy tang of feta pairs beautifully with the savory broccoli.
- Spicy Sriracha: Mix in a few dashes of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to give a hint of heat and excitement to your rounds. Perfect for those who like their snacks with a kick!
- Italian Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a flavorful homage to classic Italian dishes. It’s a simple way to turn comfort into a culinary masterpiece.
- Creamy Bacon Bliss: For the indulgent snackers, fold in some crispy turkey bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can easily prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape the rounds and bake when you’re ready!
- Freezing for Later: These crispy delights can also be frozen before baking. Just layer them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for a quick snack anytime.
- Ingredient Swaps: If almond flour isn’t on hand, feel free to use oat flour or even finely ground breadcrumbs. They’ll work just fine to bind everything together.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any rounds left (which is rare, believe me!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch!
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and bake it just before serving for maximum freshness.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven to revive that crispy texture.
How long does it last?
These delicious rounds last up to 3 days in the fridge, though they’re so good, they’re likely to disappear long before then!
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds are more than just a snack; they’re a cozy hug for your taste buds. With rich flavors and a satisfying crunch, they make any moment a little brighter, whether it’s a simple celebration at home or a gathering with loved ones. Save this recipe to your cozy kitchen board so it’s ready whenever you crave that heartwarming, cheesy delight!
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Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Enjoy these low-carb, crispy bites of broccoli and cheddar perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 (10oz) bag frozen broccoli rice (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp almond flour
- Seasoning to taste (garlic salt recommended)
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli rice in the microwave according to the package directions.
- Drain the broccoli rice using a fine strainer, squeezing out as much excess liquid as possible and set aside to cool.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli rice, cheddar cheese, egg, almond flour, and seasoning.
- Roll the mixture into about 16 small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, flattening each slightly.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Flip each round and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until crispy.
- Serve warm, either alone or with ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
These rounds can be frozen before baking for quick snacks later. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
