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Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites Healthy Snack Recipe

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- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed - 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - ½ cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free) - 2 large eggs - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients come together to make tasty broccoli cheddar quinoa bites. Quinoa is a great base; it adds protein and fiber. The broccoli gives a nice crunch and vibrant color, while sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich flavor. Breadcrumbs help bind everything. They also add a bit of crispiness to the bites. Eggs serve as another binder to keep them together. Olive oil adds moisture, while Dijon mustard brings a tangy kick. For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder enhance the taste. Salt and pepper round it all out, making every bite delicious. With these simple ingredients, you can create a healthy snack everyone will love. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This step helps remove the bitter coating. Next, place the rinsed quinoa in a medium saucepan. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it's ready when the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is gone. After cooking, let the quinoa cool for a bit. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with other ingredients. Add 1 ½ cups of chopped broccoli florets, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of breadcrumbs. Then, crack in 2 large eggs. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until the mixture is even. Now it's time to bake! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. Using a spoon or your hands, scoop the mixture into each muffin cup. Press down gently to pack the mixture. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch. After baking, let the bites cool for a few minutes before taking them out of the muffin tin. To make the best broccoli cheddar quinoa bites, focus on texture. You want them to be soft inside but crisp outside. Cook the quinoa until fluffy, and let it cool. This helps it blend well with the other ingredients. Packing the mixture in the muffin tin is key. Use a spoon or your hands to press the mix firmly into each cup. This ensures they hold their shape while baking. For a great presentation, serve these bites on a colorful platter. Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a nice touch. They make the dish look vibrant and appetizing. Dipping sauces can enhance your bites. Try ranch dressing for a creamy dip or a tangy yogurt sauce. Both options add extra flavor and make the bites even more enjoyable. You can easily change the spice levels in your bites. For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. If you prefer milder flavors, skip the extra spices. Also, feel free to swap out the cheese. While sharp cheddar works great, mozzarella or feta can bring a different taste. Experiment with what you like best! Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture. Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor. Make Ahead: Prepare the quinoa bites in advance and freeze them. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Perfect Serving Size: For bite-sized snacks, use a mini muffin tin. For larger servings, a standard muffin tin works well. {{image_2}} You can change the vegetables in this recipe. Try using spinach or cauliflower instead of broccoli. Both will still taste great and add color. You can also swap the cheese. Use mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for a tangy kick. These small changes can keep the recipe fresh and exciting. If you want a vegan version, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water for each egg. For cheese, use a vegan option and choose vegan breadcrumbs. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites. To make these bites gluten-free, pick gluten-free breadcrumbs. They still provide the same crunch and texture. You might also want to adjust the seasonings. Some people may need to avoid certain spices. Always check ingredients for dietary needs. Making these simple swaps can make your dish safe and delicious for everyone. To store leftovers, place the bites in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to let them cool before sealing. If you want to freeze quinoa bites, first, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quick heating. You can add the leftover bites to salads for extra protein. They also make a great filling for wraps. If you want a quick snack, enjoy them with some yogurt dip. You can even crumble them over pasta for a fun twist. Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites last about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool completely before sealing. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. Yes, you can make these bites ahead of time. Prepare them and store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They are great for meal prep. You can use rice, farro, or millet as a substitute for quinoa. Cook these grains according to package directions. Each option brings its own flavor and texture. Rice is soft, while farro adds a chewy bite. Choose based on your taste. Yes, these bites are great for kids! They love the cheesy flavor. To make them even kid-friendlier, you can reduce the onion and garlic powders. You can also use mild cheese instead of sharp cheddar. This makes the bites softer and less intense in flavor. This blog post covered how to make Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites. We explored the main ingredients, including quinoa and cheese. You learned the step-by-step process to mix and bake the bites. I shared useful tips to perfect them and ideas for variations. Remember, you can make these bites your own by swapping ingredients or adjusting flavors. Enjoy these tasty bites as snacks or meals. They are healthy and fun to make!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick and healthy snack that packs flavor and nutrition? You’re in the right place! My Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are easy to make and bursting with goodness. With simple ingredients like quinoa, broccoli, and sharp cheddar, these bites are sure to delight both kids and adults. Ready to learn how to whip up this tasty treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthy and Nutritious: These quinoa bites are packed with protein and fiber, making them a wholesome snack or side dish.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, with minimal prep and cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights.
  3. Kid-Friendly: The cheesy flavor and bite-sized portions make these bites a hit with kids and adults alike.
  4. Versatile: Feel free to customize these bites with your favorite veggies or cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

– 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped

– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Additional Ingredients

– ½ cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free)

– 2 large eggs

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Spices and Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to make tasty broccoli cheddar quinoa bites. Quinoa is a great base; it adds protein and fiber. The broccoli gives a nice crunch and vibrant color, while sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich flavor.

Breadcrumbs help bind everything. They also add a bit of crispiness to the bites. Eggs serve as another binder to keep them together. Olive oil adds moisture, while Dijon mustard brings a tangy kick.

For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder enhance the taste. Salt and pepper round it all out, making every bite delicious. With these simple ingredients, you can create a healthy snack everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Quinoa

To start, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This step helps remove the bitter coating. Next, place the rinsed quinoa in a medium saucepan. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is gone. After cooking, let the quinoa cool for a bit.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with other ingredients. Add 1 ½ cups of chopped broccoli florets, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of breadcrumbs. Then, crack in 2 large eggs. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until the mixture is even.

Baking the Bites

Now it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. Using a spoon or your hands, scoop the mixture into each muffin cup. Press down gently to pack the mixture. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch. After baking, let the bites cool for a few minutes before taking them out of the muffin tin.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Bites

To make the best broccoli cheddar quinoa bites, focus on texture. You want them to be soft inside but crisp outside. Cook the quinoa until fluffy, and let it cool. This helps it blend well with the other ingredients.

Packing the mixture in the muffin tin is key. Use a spoon or your hands to press the mix firmly into each cup. This ensures they hold their shape while baking.

Serving Suggestions

For a great presentation, serve these bites on a colorful platter. Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a nice touch. They make the dish look vibrant and appetizing.

Dipping sauces can enhance your bites. Try ranch dressing for a creamy dip or a tangy yogurt sauce. Both options add extra flavor and make the bites even more enjoyable.

Adjusting Flavor

You can easily change the spice levels in your bites. For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. If you prefer milder flavors, skip the extra spices.

Also, feel free to swap out the cheese. While sharp cheddar works great, mozzarella or feta can bring a different taste. Experiment with what you like best!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
  2. Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor.
  3. Make Ahead: Prepare the quinoa bites in advance and freeze them. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  4. Perfect Serving Size: For bite-sized snacks, use a mini muffin tin. For larger servings, a standard muffin tin works well.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the vegetables in this recipe. Try using spinach or cauliflower instead of broccoli. Both will still taste great and add color. You can also swap the cheese. Use mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for a tangy kick. These small changes can keep the recipe fresh and exciting.

Vegan Option

If you want a vegan version, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water for each egg. For cheese, use a vegan option and choose vegan breadcrumbs. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites.

Gluten-Free Option

To make these bites gluten-free, pick gluten-free breadcrumbs. They still provide the same crunch and texture. You might also want to adjust the seasonings. Some people may need to avoid certain spices. Always check ingredients for dietary needs. Making these simple swaps can make your dish safe and delicious for everyone.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, place the bites in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to let them cool before sealing.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze quinoa bites, first, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quick heating.

How to Use Leftovers

You can add the leftover bites to salads for extra protein. They also make a great filling for wraps. If you want a quick snack, enjoy them with some yogurt dip. You can even crumble them over pasta for a fun twist.

FAQs

How long do Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites last in the fridge?

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites last about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool completely before sealing. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bites ahead of time. Prepare them and store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They are great for meal prep.

What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use rice, farro, or millet as a substitute for quinoa. Cook these grains according to package directions. Each option brings its own flavor and texture. Rice is soft, while farro adds a chewy bite. Choose based on your taste.

Are Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites suitable for kids?

Yes, these bites are great for kids! They love the cheesy flavor. To make them even kid-friendlier, you can reduce the onion and garlic powders. You can also use mild cheese instead of sharp cheddar. This makes the bites softer and less intense in flavor.

This blog post covered how to make Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites. We explored the main ingredients, including quinoa and cheese. You learned the step-by-step process to mix and bake the bites. I shared useful tips to perfect them and ideas for variations. Remember, you can make these bites your own by swapping ingredients or adjusting flavors. Enjoy these tasty bites as snacks or meals. They are healthy and fun to mak

- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed - 1 ½ cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - ½ cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free) - 2 large eggs - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients come together to make tasty broccoli cheddar quinoa bites. Quinoa is a great base; it adds protein and fiber. The broccoli gives a nice crunch and vibrant color, while sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich flavor. Breadcrumbs help bind everything. They also add a bit of crispiness to the bites. Eggs serve as another binder to keep them together. Olive oil adds moisture, while Dijon mustard brings a tangy kick. For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder enhance the taste. Salt and pepper round it all out, making every bite delicious. With these simple ingredients, you can create a healthy snack everyone will love. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. This step helps remove the bitter coating. Next, place the rinsed quinoa in a medium saucepan. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it's ready when the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is gone. After cooking, let the quinoa cool for a bit. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with other ingredients. Add 1 ½ cups of chopped broccoli florets, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of breadcrumbs. Then, crack in 2 large eggs. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until the mixture is even. Now it's time to bake! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. Using a spoon or your hands, scoop the mixture into each muffin cup. Press down gently to pack the mixture. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch. After baking, let the bites cool for a few minutes before taking them out of the muffin tin. To make the best broccoli cheddar quinoa bites, focus on texture. You want them to be soft inside but crisp outside. Cook the quinoa until fluffy, and let it cool. This helps it blend well with the other ingredients. Packing the mixture in the muffin tin is key. Use a spoon or your hands to press the mix firmly into each cup. This ensures they hold their shape while baking. For a great presentation, serve these bites on a colorful platter. Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a nice touch. They make the dish look vibrant and appetizing. Dipping sauces can enhance your bites. Try ranch dressing for a creamy dip or a tangy yogurt sauce. Both options add extra flavor and make the bites even more enjoyable. You can easily change the spice levels in your bites. For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. If you prefer milder flavors, skip the extra spices. Also, feel free to swap out the cheese. While sharp cheddar works great, mozzarella or feta can bring a different taste. Experiment with what you like best! Pro Tips Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture. Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor. Make Ahead: Prepare the quinoa bites in advance and freeze them. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Perfect Serving Size: For bite-sized snacks, use a mini muffin tin. For larger servings, a standard muffin tin works well. {{image_2}} You can change the vegetables in this recipe. Try using spinach or cauliflower instead of broccoli. Both will still taste great and add color. You can also swap the cheese. Use mozzarella for a milder taste or feta for a tangy kick. These small changes can keep the recipe fresh and exciting. If you want a vegan version, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water for each egg. For cheese, use a vegan option and choose vegan breadcrumbs. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites. To make these bites gluten-free, pick gluten-free breadcrumbs. They still provide the same crunch and texture. You might also want to adjust the seasonings. Some people may need to avoid certain spices. Always check ingredients for dietary needs. Making these simple swaps can make your dish safe and delicious for everyone. To store leftovers, place the bites in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to let them cool before sealing. If you want to freeze quinoa bites, first, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quick heating. You can add the leftover bites to salads for extra protein. They also make a great filling for wraps. If you want a quick snack, enjoy them with some yogurt dip. You can even crumble them over pasta for a fun twist. Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites last about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool completely before sealing. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. Yes, you can make these bites ahead of time. Prepare them and store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They are great for meal prep. You can use rice, farro, or millet as a substitute for quinoa. Cook these grains according to package directions. Each option brings its own flavor and texture. Rice is soft, while farro adds a chewy bite. Choose based on your taste. Yes, these bites are great for kids! They love the cheesy flavor. To make them even kid-friendlier, you can reduce the onion and garlic powders. You can also use mild cheese instead of sharp cheddar. This makes the bites softer and less intense in flavor. This blog post covered how to make Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites. We explored the main ingredients, including quinoa and cheese. You learned the step-by-step process to mix and bake the bites. I shared useful tips to perfect them and ideas for variations. Remember, you can make these bites your own by swapping ingredients or adjusting flavors. Enjoy these tasty bites as snacks or meals. They are healthy and fun to make!

Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites

Delicious and nutritious bites made with quinoa, broccoli, and cheddar cheese, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1.5 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • as needed cooking spray or additional olive oil for greasing the muffin tin

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
  • Using a spoon or your hands, scoop the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing down gently to pack them into each cup.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and firm to the touch.
  • Once done, let them sit for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin with a spoon or knife.

Notes

Serve on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh herbs and paired with a dipping sauce.
Keyword bites, broccoli, cheddar, quinoa, snack

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