Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bites in Air Fryer

A Perfect Snack or Appetizer

Looking for a crispy, flavorful, and healthy snack? These Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bites are a fantastic option. Made in the air fryer, they offer the perfect crunch without excessive oil. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or a nutritious snack, these bites are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Delicious: The air fryer gives these broccoli bites a delightful crunch.
• Healthy Alternative: Uses minimal oil while keeping all the nutrients of broccoli intact.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, making them a great last-minute snack.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get kids to enjoy vegetables.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Store and reheat easily for later snacking.

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for spraying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture

1. Finely chop the broccoli florets or pulse them in a food processor until they resemble small rice-sized pieces.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning.
3. Add the egg to the mixture and mix well until everything is combined.

2. Shape the Bites

4. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small balls or patties.
5. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

3. Air Fry the Bites

6. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
8. Arrange the broccoli bites in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
9. Lightly spray the bites with olive oil for extra crispiness.
10. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

4. Serve and Enjoy

11. Remove from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute.
12. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.

Variations

• Cheesy Delight: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the mix for extra cheesiness.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use a flax egg.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but thaw and drain excess moisture before chopping to prevent a soggy mixture.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dips go best with these bites?

Ranch, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or marinara sauce pair perfectly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a day before air frying.

How do I ensure they stay crispy?

Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer, and spray lightly with oil before cooking.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes! Try cauliflower, zucchini, or a mix of veggies for variety.

What’s the best way to chop the broccoli?

A food processor works best, but you can finely chop with a knife as well.

Are these suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! They store well and reheat easily, making them a great meal prep option.

Can I add protein to the mix?

Yes, mix in cooked and crumbled bacon or shredded chicken for added protein.

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes, use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) as a binder.

Conclusion

These Garlic Parmesan Broccoli Bites are a delicious and healthy snack or appetizer that everyone will love. With their crispy texture, cheesy flavor, and easy air fryer preparation, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them fresh and hot with your favorite dip!

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