The smell of golden cheese bubbling in the oven always takes me back to Sunday afternoons in my kitchen. These low carb crispy broccoli cheese rounds have become my go-to when I want something satisfying without the carbs. They’re popping up everywhere because they taste like comfort food but keep you on track.
Think cheesy broccoli tots but without the potatoes or guilt. Fresh broccoli gets chopped fine, mixed with sharp cheddar and just enough egg to bind everything together. They bake up golden and crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy inside. Perfect for snacking or alongside your favorite protein.
Started making these back in 2018 when my daughter went keto and missed her favorite frozen tots. The first batch came out soggy until I learned to squeeze every drop of moisture from that broccoli first. After years of testing recipes for my readers, this simple trick makes all the difference between soggy disappointment and crispy perfection.
PrintLow Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds You Will Love
Enjoy these Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds for a tasty and healthy snack. These Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds make perfect Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites and Keto Broccoli Tots anyone will love. Easy to prepare and full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup almond flour or coconut flour if you prefer
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying or drizzling
- Optional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions
- Begin by heating your oven to 400°F 200°C if you plan to bake or warming oil in a skillet over medium heat for frying.
- Finely chop the broccoli florets and steam them for around 5 minutes, then drain thoroughly and allow to cool a bit.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the cooled broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add almond flour to the mixture and mix until it forms a dough that can hold its shape.
- Beat in the eggs completely to bind the ingredients together.
- Shape the mixture into small round patties about 1 to 2 inch wide.
- Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle Parmesan if using; bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, fry the patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy.
- Let the rounds cool slightly on paper towels if fried, then serve warm with your favorite dips.
Notes
- For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 round
- Calories: ~90
- Fat: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~4g
Why These Little Golden Treasures Will Win Your Heart
These low carb crispy broccoli cheese rounds evoke fond memories of the cheese crisps my grandmother used to make on her old cast iron skillet. The way the cheddar gets all bubbly and golden around the edges while the broccoli stays tender inside – it’s truly a delight straight from your oven.
What makes these crispy broccoli cheese rounds special is how they perfectly satisfy that craving for something indulgent without leaving you feeling weighed down. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by melty cheese and fresh broccoli flavor. They’re substantial enough to serve as a flavorful side dish but also fun enough for the grandkids to enjoy as a snack.
- Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet nourishing option.
- Freezer-friendly, allowing you to prepare a large batch and reheat anytime.
- Kid-approved, making it an easy way to incorporate more vegetables into meals.
The Simple Ingredients That Make Them Shine
The beauty of these crispy broccoli cheese bites lies in their simplicity. Fresh broccoli florets form the base – I always opt for bright green heads that feel firm and have a sweet aroma. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese creates that perfect melty texture, while almond flour provides just enough structure without any heaviness.
The secret to their success truly lies in the preparation of the broccoli itself, requiring a little time and patience. Steam it just until tender, then allow it to cool completely before meticulously squeezing out every drop of moisture. This crucial step is what makes the difference between soggy rounds and perfectly crispy ones.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Easy Swaps |
|---|---|---|
| Cheddar Cheese | Main flavor and binding | Gruyere, sharp white cheddar |
| Almond Flour | Low-carb structure | Coconut flour (use half amount) |
| Cream Cheese | Creamy texture | Greek yogurt, ricotta |
| Eggs | Binding agent | Flax eggs for vegan option |
Step-by-Step to Golden Perfection
Begin by preparing the broccoli to perfection – steam the florets for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and fork-tender. The key is to avoid overcooking, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Once cooled, finely chop the broccoli and squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
Next, mix your softened cream cheese with the shredded cheddar. This creates a smooth and creamy base that beautifully coats the broccoli. Add the garlic powder and onion powder for a savory depth, then gently fold in your prepared broccoli. The almond flour is incorporated next, followed by the beaten eggs to bind all the ingredients together.
- Form rounds approximately 2 inches wide using your hands or a small scoop.
- Space them apart on your lined baking sheet to ensure even browning.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan, if desired, for an extra golden finish.
Troubleshooting Your Way to Success
If your first batch happens to come out soggy, don’t worry – it’s a common issue. The most frequent culprit is excess moisture in the broccoli. For your next attempt, ensure the florets cool completely after steaming, then squeeze them thoroughly in a clean kitchen towel until no more water is released.
Should your keto broccoli tots spread too much during baking, it typically indicates that the mixture requires a bit more binding. Try adding an extra tablespoon of almond flour or allowing the mixture to rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before forming the rounds.
| Problem | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Rounds falling apart | Add extra egg or let mixture rest |
| Not crispy enough | Increase oven temp to 425°F last 5 minutes |
| Too salty | Add a pinch of garlic powder to balance |
| Bland flavor | Extra cheese or herbs next time |
Serving Ideas and Storage Wisdom
These golden beauties are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, alongside a simple green salad or your favorite protein. I particularly love them with a dollop of sour cream mixed with fresh herbs, or a spicy ranch dip that’s a hit with the entire family.
For storing, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container and placing them in the refrigerator. They will keep beautifully for up to 4 days and reheat wonderfully in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months – simply thaw overnight and reheat until crispy once more.
- Make ahead: Form the rounds and freeze them on baking sheets, then store in freezer bags.
- Reheat tip: For optimal crispiness, skip the microwave and use the oven or air fryer.
- Perfect pairings: Ranch dip, garlic aioli, or a simple marinara sauce.
Expert Says
Low carb crispy broccoli cheese rounds combine fiber-rich broccoli with protein and fat from cheese, creating a balanced snack that supports satiety. The cheese not only adds flavor but also helps bind the mixture, delivering a crispy texture when baked at the right temperature without excess oil.
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The Journey to Perfect Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
It took several rounds of trial and error to get these low carb crispy broccoli cheese rounds just right. I learned patience the hard way, especially when the first batches clumped together, but now every bite has the perfect crunch and cheesy comfort my family loves. This recipe is truly the sum of those joyful kitchen moments.
FAQs ( Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds )
How do I make the broccoli rounds crispy?
The trick to getting these crispy veggie cheese bites is to squeeze out excess moisture from the cooked broccoli before combining with cheese and binding ingredients. Bake or air fry them at a high temperature, around 400°F, to develop a golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow proper air circulation for even crisping.
Can I make this dish ahead and reheat it?
Yes, this recipe reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness without sogginess.
Can I freeze the cheesy broccoli patties?
Freezing works well for easy low carb snacks. Place cooled patties on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until hot and crispy.
What are good dip pairings for this meal?
This dish pairs nicely with creamy dips like garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a tangy mustard sauce. Fresh herbs like dill or chives in your dip complement the cheesy broccoli flavor. Choose low-carb dips to keep this snack keto-friendly.
Can I substitute other cheeses or veggies?
Feel free to swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor and melt. For veggies, cauliflower works well as a substitute, maintaining texture and taste. Just be sure to squeeze out moisture thoroughly to keep the rounds crispy.
These low carb crispy broccoli cheese rounds bake up beautifully golden and tender in just 25 minutes, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese. You’ll adore how the edges achieve a perfect crispiness while the centers remain wonderfully creamy and comforting. Each bite delivers that satisfying crunch we all crave, wrapped in wholesome goodness that nourishes both body and soul.
Try sprinkling fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before baking – a delightful little trick passed down through generations that adds such a lovely fragrance. These rounds also freeze wonderfully, so feel free to make a double batch and tuck some away for those busy evenings. Serve them warm with a dollop of sour cream or alongside your favorite roasted chicken for a meal that feels like a gentle hug.
I’d love to hear how these turn out in your kitchen! Share a photo and tell me – did these remind you of any childhood favorites? There’s something truly special about recipes that bring families together around simple, nourishing food. Save this one for your next gathering, or better yet, teach it to someone dear who could use a little comfort food magic in their life.
