Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds (Low Carb Snack)
There’s something so comforting about the savory scent of cheese mingling with the earthy aroma of broccoli wafting through the kitchen as you prepare a snack. These Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds are reminiscent of those delightful moments spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where she often transformed ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. This is a recipe that feels both nostalgic and vibrant, perfect for savoring on cozy nights or enjoying as a light snack during busy afternoons. If you’re searching for easy low-carb snacks to satisfy your cravings without the guilt, then you’ve come to the right place!
This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to whip up, perfect for low-carb snacking.
- Family-friendly, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will want to dig in.
- No frying required—just simple baking for a crispy, guilt-free treat.
- Packed with protein and flavor, satisfying both hunger and taste buds.
- A great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a wholesome option for kids and adults alike.
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
Making these Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds is as easy as pie (or should I say, perfectly crafted round snacks!).
Start by cooking the broccoli rice in the microwave according to the package directions. Once it’s cooked, use a fine strainer to drain and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible—this is crucial for achieving that delightful crispiness! Set it aside to cool for a moment.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper—your secret to easy cleanup!
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli rice with the freshly shredded cheese, egg, almond flour, and your chosen seasoning. Give it a good mix until everything is nicely blended together.
With your hands, form about 16 small balls with the mixture. Place them evenly on the baking sheet and use your hands to gently smoosh them down a bit, creating flattened rounds.
Place the baking sheet in the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until they start to turn a golden brown.
After 15 minutes, flip each round over and continue baking for another 8-10 minutes until they’re beautifully crispy and golden.
Allow to cool slightly, then enjoy these delightful rounds alone or with a delicious ranch dressing for dipping!
Delicious Variations to Try
These Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds are incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize them to cater to your taste buds!
- Zesty Italian: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Spicy Jalapeño: Mix in some finely chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat and sprinkle with chili powder for a zesty finish.
- Herbaceous Delight: Throw in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a refreshing flavor burst that dances on your palate!
- Cheesy Spinach Twist: Substitute some of the broccoli rice with finely chopped cooked spinach for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, just shape and bake!
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have almond flour on hand, coconut flour works as a fine substitute, though you may need to adjust the quantity slightly.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any rounds left (which, let’s be honest, is a rarity!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Bake in Batches: If you’re serving a crowd, double the recipe and bake in separate batches for perfect crispiness every time.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 2 Rounds
- Calories: 160
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture beforehand and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use different ingredients?
Certainly! Feel free to swap in other veggies or cheeses based on your preferences.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven to recapture some of that crisp!
How long does it last?
These rounds are best enjoyed fresh but can last in the fridge for up to three days. The texture may soften, but they’re still delicious!
Wrapping It Up
These Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds are not only a delightfully crunchy snack, but they also evoke those warm feelings of home and togetherness. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a dash of creativity, you can create something truly special. Save this Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds (Low Carb Snack) to your low-carb snacks board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!
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Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Rounds
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Delightfully crispy and cheesy snack made with broccoli rice, perfect for low-carb cravings.
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 (e.g., garlic salt)
Instructions
- Cook the broccoli rice in the microwave according to the package directions. Drain and squeeze out excess liquid, then let cool.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled broccoli rice, shredded cheese, egg, almond flour, and seasoning. Mix until well blended.
- Form about 16 small balls with the mixture, then flatten them slightly and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip each round and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before enjoying. Serve with ranch dressing if desired.
Notes
Enjoy these rounds fresh, or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rounds
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
