Low carb alternatives can be both delicious and satisfying, and these broccoli cheese rounds deliver on all fronts. Perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even as a side dish, they combine the earthy flavors of broccoli with rich, melty cheese. With a simple preparation process and a crunchy texture, these delightful bites offer a wonderful explosion of flavor in every mouthful while keeping your carb count low.
Why We Love This Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
This recipe shines in many ways. First and foremost, it highlights broccoli, a versatile vegetable known for its numerous health benefits. Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. The combination of broccoli and cheese creates a comforting yet healthier snack that’s easy to prepare. Additionally, these rounds are perfect for anyone on a low-carb diet or looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing taste. The crispy exterior and cheesy, tender interior create a satisfying contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they are great for meal prep, making them easy to enjoy throughout the week!
Ingredients for Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
- 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of almond flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
Directions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then pour them into the mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
Using a spoon or your hands, form the mixture into small rounds or patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each round.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rounds are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving plate. Enjoy while warm!
How to Serve Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Serving these low carb broccoli cheese rounds is straightforward, and there are several ways to present them. You can serve them hot straight from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair them with some dipping sauces for added flavor. A tangy ranch or a zesty yogurt dip complements the cheesy goodness of the rounds perfectly. They also work as a great appetizer at parties or game days, making them a crowd-pleaser. For a light meal, consider placing a few rounds on top of a fresh salad. The crunch of the rounds contrasts nicely with the crisp greens, and the cheese adds a satisfying richness. No matter how you choose to serve them, your guests are sure to enjoy these tasty bites.
Expert Tips for Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
To ensure that your broccoli cheese rounds turn out perfect every time, there are a few expert tips to consider. First, make sure to chop the broccoli finely; this helps the ingredients stick together and ensures an even bake. You can pulse the broccoli in a food processor for a textured but fine mixture. Second, allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes after combining. This helps the almond flour absorb moisture, leading to a better consistency. When shaping the rounds, you can slightly dampen your hands to prevent sticking. For an extra crispy finish, consider broiling the rounds for a minute or two at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning! Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses or herbs. Adding a bit of spice or flavor can elevate your creation to new heights, so feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences.
How to Store Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Storing leftover broccoli cheese rounds is simple and helps you maintain their delicious flavor and texture. Allow the rounds to cool completely before storing them to prevent moisture build-up. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary to avoid sticking. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Arrange the cooled rounds on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. After that, transfer the rounds to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, storing them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the rounds in the oven until warmed through and crispy.
Variations of Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
While the original recipe is satisfying on its own, you can easily make these low carb broccoli cheese rounds your own with various variations. Try adding ingredients like cooked chicken or turkey for a protein boost. Not only does this increase the nutritional value, but it also transforms the rounds into a heartier snack or meal. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, slice fresh jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes into the mixture. You can also play around with cheese choices; swapping in mozzarella gives a gooey texture while feta adds a tangy bite. Going vegetarian? Throw in some finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can customize the herbs and spices to suit your taste, turning these rounds into your personal signature dish.
FAQ about Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
If you’re curious about how to fit these low carb broccoli cheese rounds into your meal plan or have other questions, here are some frequently asked questions. You may wonder what makes them a low carb option. Broccoli contains very few carbs compared to traditional flours and grains typically used in cooking. Almond flour is a popular choice for low carb diets because it significantly reduces the carb content while adding a nutty flavor. Another common question is how to adapt the recipe for dietary restrictions. If you have a dairy allergy, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture to bind the ingredients together. Feel free to get creative! Lastly, some ask whether these rounds can be reheated. Yes, you can reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture. Enjoying these rounds prepared in various ways keeps meals exciting without compromising your low carb lifestyle.
Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped Ensure broccoli is finely chopped for better consistency.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) Feel free to try different cheese types.
- 2 large eggs Beaten before mixing with other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup almond flour Helps to keep the recipe low-carb.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder Adds flavor to the rounds.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder Enhances the overall taste.
- to taste none Salt and pepper Adjust as needed for flavor.
- as needed none Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing To prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then pour them into the mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Using a spoon or your hands, form the mixture into small rounds or patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each round.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rounds are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving plate. Enjoy while warm!
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