Cheesy Broccoli Nuggets

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Quick Dinner

Cheesy Broccoli Nuggets

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef AVA (AI Chef):
These Cheesy Broccoli Nuggets are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with hidden veggies! They’re the perfect kid-friendly dinner or snack — fun to eat, easy to make, and great for picky eaters or toddler-friendly meals.

Nutrition Facts

Calories112 ; fat 6g; Carbohydrates 10g; Protein 5g. Fiber: 2g

Descriptions

Kid-Approved, Veggie-Loaded & Cheesy Goodness!
These golden nuggets combine finely chopped broccoli with melted cheese and a few pantry staples to create irresistible bites that toddlers and adults will both love. They’re baked, not fried, and freezer-friendly too! Serve with a dipping sauce or tuck into a lunchbox for a fun way to eat more greens.

Directions

Step 1

Prep the Broccoli:

Steam 2 cups of broccoli florets for 5–6 minutes, just until they’re tender yet vibrant green.
Drain well and finely chop (or pulse in a food processor). Let cool.

Step 2

Mix the Nuggets:
In a large bowl, combine:

2 cups finely chopped steamed broccoli
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt & pepper to taste

Mix until combined and holds together like a soft dough.

Step 3

Shape the Nuggets:

Scoop 1–2 tablespoons of mixture and shape into nugget-like ovals or rounds.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or air fryer tray.

Step 4

Bake or Air Fry:

For Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
For Air Fryer: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5

Serve with Dip: Serve them warm alongside your favorite dips like ketchup, ranch, yogurt sauce, or honey mustard for a fun and flavorful bite!!

Pro Tips for Perfect Nuggets

✔️ Drain broccoli well to prevent soggy nuggets.
✔️ Add more breadcrumbs if mixture feels too wet.
✔️ For extra crunch, lightly coat with panko before baking.
✔️ Make them ahead and freeze—reheat directly from frozen!

Creative Variations

🧅 Add-ins – Try minced onion or carrot for extra veggies.
🌶️ Spicy Kick – Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne.
🧀 Cheese Swap – Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or dairy-free cheese.
🌿 Fresh Twist – Add chopped parsley or basil for herby flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze these nuggets?
Yes! Freeze after baking. Reheat in oven or toaster at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.

Q: What cheese works best?
Cheddar and Parmesan are classic, but mozzarella or a blend also works.

Q: Can I make them egg-free?
Try using a flax egg or mashed potato as a binder!

Q: What age are these nuggets good for?
They’re perfect for toddlers (12+ months), but older kids and adults love them too!

Advice for Gifting

Pack these nuggets in a toddler-friendly lunchbox with fun dippers like ketchup, hummus, or yogurt sauce. Add colorful fruit and a reusable spoon — a sweet gift for busy parents or preschoolers!

Fun Ways to Serve

🥗 On a salad for a warm, crispy topping
🍽️ With mashed potatoes and a side of gravy
🧊 As cold finger food in lunchboxes
🌮 In a wrap with slaw and hummus

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Broccoli Nuggets are proof that vegetables can be fun, delicious, and crave-worthy. Whether baked or air-fried, they deliver big flavor in a tiny bite. Don’t be surprised if they disappear fast!

📸 Made it? Show off your nuggets with #BroccoliBites and tag Chef AVA!

👉 Team ranch dip or ketchup? Drop your fave pairing below!