These Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are a delicious and nutritious appetizer or snack, combining protein-packed quinoa, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese baked into bite-sized morsels. Perfect for a party appetizer or a healthy snack option that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:24 bites
Ingredients
Main 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 Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook according to package directions until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, beaten eggs, finely diced broccoli, yellow onion, minced garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, and crushed red pepper if using. Stir until well mixed.
Prepare Oven and Muffin Tins: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray mini muffin tins with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon a heaping tablespoonful of the quinoa mixture into each prepared muffin cup, distributing the mixture evenly.
Bake Bites: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the bites are set.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool in the pans for 5 minutes. Gently remove from the muffin tins and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
Ensure quinoa is completely cooled before mixing with eggs to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.
Finely dice broccoli and onions for better binding and even texture.
Substitute cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative to make this recipe vegan.
Use vegetable broth for extra flavor instead of water.
These bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well.
Add herbs like parsley or chives for additional flavor.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
