Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Delicious: Quinoa is a complete protein, and when combined with broccoli and cheddar, it creates a tasty and wholesome treat.
- Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors and fun, bite-sized shape make these bites appealing to children.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bites in no time.
- Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or pack them in lunchboxes for a convenient meal option.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 1½ cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely diced
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Crushed red pepper (optional) to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Let cool.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the cooled quinoa, beaten eggs, finely diced broccoli florets, diced onion, minced garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, and paprika. Add crushed red pepper if desired. Stir until well combined.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fill Muffin Tins: Grease mini-muffin tins with cooking spray. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the quinoa mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down gently to compact.
- Bake: Place the muffin tins in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently remove them from the pan and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 30 to 36 bites
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 to 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35 to 40 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or cooked bacon bits to enhance the taste and nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook quinoa for this recipe?
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. Then, cook it in vegetable broth or water according to package instructions until tender.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw frozen broccoli and chop it finely before adding to the mixture. Ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Are these bites gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses quinoa and does not include any wheat-based ingredients.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quinoa mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, fill the muffin tins and proceed as directed.
What can I serve with these bites?
Serve them with a side salad, soup, or dipping sauces like ranch or marinara for a complete meal.
How do I prevent the bites from sticking to the muffin tin?
Grease the muffin tins well with cooking spray or use silicone muffin molds to ensure easy removal.
Can I make larger muffins instead of mini bites?
Yes, use a standard muffin tin and adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes, ensuring the centers are cooked through.
Are these bites suitable for freezing?
Absolutely, they freeze well. Follow the freezing instructions mentioned above for best results.
How can I add more protein to this recipe?
Incorporate cooked and diced chicken or turkey into the mixture to boost the protein content.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal plan
Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 30-36 mini bites
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are bite-sized, protein-packed snacks made with quinoa, broccoli, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for appetizers, lunchboxes, or healthy snacking, these easy-to-make bites are kid-friendly and naturally gluten-free.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 1½ cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely diced
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Crushed red pepper (optional), to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa and combine it with vegetable broth or water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Let it cool.
- Prepare the Mixture: Mix the cooled quinoa with eggs, diced broccoli, onion, garlic, cheddar cheese, and paprika in a large bowl. Add crushed red pepper if desired. Stir to combine.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fill Muffin Tins: Grease mini-muffin tins with cooking spray and spoon a heaping tablespoon of the mixture into each cup, pressing gently.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bites cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variety.
- Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or bacon bits for enhanced flavor.
- For larger muffins, use a standard tin and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
