Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Recipe by The Gourmet RD

Broccoli Bites! In all their deep-fried goodness, the little broccoli nuggets are crispy golden brown on the outside and ooey, gooey on the inside.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked broccoli florets
• 2 slices cooked bacon
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup shredded cheese (sharp cheddar or Colby jack)
• 2 tbsp + ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (divided)
• ½ tsp each garlic powder and onion powder
• ¼ tsp each coarse salt and ground black pepper
• crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Method

1. Place broccoli and bacon in a food processor. Pulse until broccoli and bacon are in small crumbles. Place broccoli/bacon crumbles in a medium bowl. Add eggs, cheese, 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir to combine.
   
   Place mixture in the freezer for 1 hour or refrigerator for at least 2 hours, until chilled. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside. Using a medium cookie scoop, form balls of mixture, using hands to shape. Roll in remaining ¼ cup breadcrumbs until coated.
   
   Place on baking sheet, about ½ inch apart. Coat bites with cooking spray. Bake 15-20 minutes, until breadcrumbs are crispy and lightly browned. Allow to cool slightly before eating.

View the recipe instructions at The Gourmet RD