Amazing Irresistibly Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Oh, I’m so excited to share this recipe with you today! I remember one afternoon, searching for a quick and wholesome snack that wasn’t just another bowl of chips. I wanted something satisfyingly crunchy and utterly delicious, something that would make me feel good about eating it. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea for these amazing crispy broccoli cheese rounds, and let me tell you, my kitchen (and my taste buds!) haven’t been the same since.
These incredible little rounds are such a delightful surprise, transforming simple broccoli into a golden, cheesy, and utterly irresistible bite. They’re perfect as a snack, a side dish, or even a fun appetizer, and they come together in just about 40-45 minutes total (15 minutes prep, 25-30 minutes cook time). Get ready to fall in love with broccoli all over again!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
I truly believe these crispy broccoli cheese rounds will become a new favorite in your home. They offer so much, and here’s why I just can’t get enough of them:
- Effortlessly Delicious: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a snack that tastes incredibly gourmet, but is super easy to prepare.
- Irresistibly Crispy: The combination of perfectly blanched broccoli and melted, golden Parmesan creates a texture that’s satisfyingly crunchy with every single bite.
- Health-Conscious & Versatile: They’re naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, making them a smart choice for various dietary needs. Plus, they sneak in some wonderful veggies!
- Kid-Friendly Approval: Even the pickiest eaters often fall for the cheesy, crispy goodness, making these a fantastic way to get more greens onto their plates.
The Wholesome Goodness: Health Benefits of Broccoli
I love that these crispy broccoli cheese rounds aren’t just delicious, but they’re also packed with goodness! Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable. I know I always feel good about adding it to my diet.
It’s an excellent source of fiber, which is so important for digestion, and it’s loaded with vitamins C and K. Plus, broccoli contains potent antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being. It’s truly a smart and tasty way to enjoy your vegetables!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these wonderful crispy broccoli cheese rounds. I find that using fresh, good-quality ingredients always makes the biggest difference in the final taste.
For the broccoli, fresh crowns are my top choice. While riced broccoli or frozen broccoli could work with adjustments, fresh florets really hold their shape and texture best for smashing. For the cheese, pre-shredded Parmesan is super convenient, but if you have a block, shredding it yourself can sometimes result in an even crispier texture.
For the Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds:
- 3 crowns broccoli, (cut into large florets)
- 10 oz shredded parmesan cheese
- salt, garlic powder + onion powder (to taste)
For the Optional Zesty Sriracha Ranch Dip:
This dip is optional, of course, but I highly, highly recommend whipping it up! It adds a fantastic zesty kick that perfectly complements the savory rounds. It’s creamy, spicy, and so easy to make while your rounds are baking.
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbs Sriracha sauce
- 1 tbs rice vinegar
- 2 tbs chopped chives
- 1/2 tsp each onion powder, garlic powder
- pinch of cayenne pepper ((optional))
Essential Kitchen Tools for Success
To make these crispy broccoli cheese rounds a breeze, I rely on a few simple kitchen tools. You likely have most of these already, which is another reason I love this recipe!
- Large pot (for blanching)
- Colander (for straining)
- Large rimmed baking sheet (essential for even cooking and containing the cheese)
- Parchment paper (makes cleanup a dream and prevents sticking)
- Small shot glass or flat-bottomed glass (my secret weapon for smashing!)
- Paper towels (for moisture management)
- Small mixing bowl and whisk (for the optional dip)
How to Make Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds – Step-by-Step
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making these crispy broccoli cheese rounds is straightforward, and I’ll walk you through each step. I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the results are so worth it!
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 420℉. This high heat is key for getting that cheese wonderfully golden and crispy! While it’s heating up, line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This will save you a lot of scrubbing later, trust me.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a large pot of water (about halfway full) to a boil. Add in your large broccoli florets and 1 tsp of salt, then bring the water back to a boil. Blanch the broccoli for just a minute or two. The goal is to slightly tenderize them, not cook them all the way through. Do not over boil the broccoli, as we want them firm enough to smash. Immediately strain the broccoli and transfer it to a platter lined with paper towels. I gently pat them dry to remove as much moisture as possible, which is crucial for crispiness.
- Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the baking sheet evenly with your shredded Parmesan cheese, creating a thin, even layer. Next, transfer the blanets to the sheet, making sure to space them out a bit. You’ll need room to mash them! Take a small shot glass (or any small, flat-bottomed glass) and gently but firmly smash each broccoli piece down. Sprinkle the tops with salt, onion powder, and a little garlic powder to your taste. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese has turned a beautiful golden brown and the broccoli edges are crispy. Allow them to cool slightly on the sheet, then carefully break them apart to serve. Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy creations!
How to Make the Zesty Sriracha Ranch Dip:
Making the dip is even simpler! In a small mixing bowl, just whisk together all the dip ingredients: mayo, buttermilk, Sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, chopped chives, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit more heat. Taste and adjust seasonings if you wish. I love how quickly this comes together and how it elevates the rounds!
Amazing Irresistibly Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 420℉. This high heat is key for getting that cheese wonderfully golden and crispy! While it’s heating up, line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This will save you a lot of scrubbing later, trust me.
- Bring a large pot of water (about halfway full) to a boil. Add in your large broccoli florets and 1 tsp of salt, then bring the water back to a boil. Blanch the broccoli for just a minute or two. The goal is to slightly tenderize them, not cook them all the way through. Do not over boil the broccoli, as we want them firm enough to smash. Immediately strain the broccoli and transfer it to a platter lined with paper towels. I gently pat them dry to remove as much moisture as possible, which is crucial for crispiness.
- Sprinkle the baking sheet evenly with your shredded Parmesan cheese, creating a thin, even layer. Next, transfer the blanets to the sheet, making sure to space them out a bit. You’ll need room to mash them! Take a small shot glass (or any small, flat-bottomed glass) and gently but firmly smash each broccoli piece down. Sprinkle the tops with salt, onion powder, and a little garlic powder to your taste. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese has turned a beautiful golden brown and the broccoli edges are crispy. Allow them to cool slightly on the sheet, then carefully break them apart to serve. Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy creations!
- Making the dip is even simpler! In a small mixing bowl, just whisk together all the dip ingredients: mayo, buttermilk, Sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, chopped chives, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit more heat. Taste and adjust seasonings if you wish. I love how quickly this comes together and how it elevates the rounds!
Notes
Serving Suggestions & Dipping Delights
These crispy broccoli cheese rounds are incredibly versatile! While I love them straight off the baking sheet as a snack, they can also elevate so many meals. I’ve used them in creative ways, and I encourage you to experiment too!
Beyond my favorite Zesty Sriracha Ranch Dip, there are so many other fantastic dipping options to explore. Here are a few ideas to get your culinary creativity flowing:
| Dipping Sauce Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Sriracha Ranch Dip | My recipe’s zesty, spicy, and creamy accompaniment. |
| Garlic Aioli | A rich, garlicky, and luxurious dip. |
| Marinara Sauce | A classic, savory, and kid-friendly option. |
| Honey Mustard | A sweet and tangy sauce for a different flavor profile. |
| Chipotle Mayo | For a smoky, slightly spicy kick. |
You can also use these crispy broccoli cheese rounds as a unique side dish alongside easy crockpot broccoli cheddar chicken, zesty BBQ chicken or fish, perhaps even a hearty bacon cheeseburger soup, crumble them over a fresh salad for extra crunch, or even use them as a creative topping for burgers or wraps. They truly add a burst of flavor and texture wherever you put them!
Variations & Substitutions for Your Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
I love how adaptable this recipe is! Feel free to play around with different ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. I’ve tried several variations myself, and they’ve all been delicious. Here are some ideas for customizing your crispy broccoli cheese rounds:
| Component | Substitution/Variation Idea | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | Cauliflower florets, riced broccoli/cauliflower, mixed veggies | Adjust blanching time if using different vegetables. |
| Cheese | Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, a blend of Italian cheeses, nutritional yeast | Affects flavor and melt. Nutritional yeast for dairy-free option. |
| Binder | A whisked egg (if not using mayo/binder for cohesion), 1-2 tbsp almond flour | Egg helps bind. Almond flour can add crispness. |
| Seasoning | Smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, everything bagel seasoning | Adjust to taste and dietary preferences. |
| Dietary | Vegan cheese shreds, flax egg (for binding if needed) | Choose suitable plant-based alternatives. |
Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Your Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
These crispy broccoli cheese rounds are best enjoyed fresh, but I know life happens! It’s totally possible to store them, reheat them, and even freeze them for later. I often make a double batch just for this purpose!
How to Store Leftovers
Once your crispy broccoli cheese rounds have cooled completely, I recommend storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. I always make sure they’re fully cool to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
Reheating for Maximum Crispiness
To bring back that glorious crispiness, avoid the microwave! I find the best methods are using the oven or an air fryer.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175°C). Place the rounds on a baking sheet and heat for 8-10 minutes, or until they are hot and re-crisped.
- Air Fryer: Pop them into your air fryer at 350℉ (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until they’re golden and crunchy again.
Can You Freeze Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds?
Absolutely! These are fantastic for meal prepping. Once the crispy broccoli cheese rounds are fully cooked and cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can bake them directly from frozen. Just preheat your oven to 400℉ (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
I often get questions about recipes, and I love answering them! Here are some common queries I hear about these crispy broccoli cheese rounds:
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry to remove all excess moisture before blanching. You might need to adjust the blanching time as frozen broccoli is often partially cooked.
- Are these gluten-free? Absolutely! Since the main ingredients are broccoli and cheese, these crispy broccoli cheese rounds are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any seasonings or dips you use are also gluten-free.
- How can I make them spicier? If you love heat, you’re in luck! You can increase the cayenne pepper in the dip or sprinkle a little extra on the rounds themselves before baking. A dash of red pepper flakes on the broccoli before smashing also works wonders.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, this recipe is quite flexible! Small florets of cauliflower work wonderfully as a direct substitute. You could also try finely diced bell peppers or shredded carrots mixed in with the broccoli before smashing, but be mindful of adding too much extra moisture.
I hope these answers help you feel confident in making these delicious rounds!
I truly hope you adore these crispy broccoli cheese rounds as much as I do! It’s such a simple way to transform a humble vegetable into something utterly delightful, and it always brings a smile to my face when I pull that golden sheet out of the oven. These rounds are a fantastic answer to that daily question, “What will I cook?”
Please, if you make them, let me know how they turn out in the comments below! Did you try a fun variation? Do you have a favorite dipping sauce that’s not on my list? I’d love to hear all about your kitchen adventures. Don’t forget to tag me on social media @whatwillcook and use #CrispyBroccoliCheeseRounds so I can see your wonderful creations! Happy cooking!