Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re busy, I get it. We all are! But that doesn’t mean we should compromise on flavor or our health goals.
These Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds are a game-changer for anyone seeking delicious, wholesome options. First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. You won’t spend hours in the kitchen, I promise.
Furthermore, they pack a serious punch of flavor. Imagine tender broccoli florets mingled with sharp cheddar cheese, all baked into a perfectly golden, savory round. Absolutely irresistible!
Moreover, these fantastic broccoli cheddar rounds are naturally low in carbohydrates, making them ideal for keto, Atkins, or anyone simply trying to reduce their carb intake. They’re also gluten-free, using almond flour as a binder, so they suit various dietary needs.
Furthermore, these healthy cheese rounds are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a delightful side dish, a guilt-free snack, or even a light, satisfying lunch. They’re fantastic for meal prep, holding up wonderfully in the fridge for several days.
Plus, kids love them! It’s a clever way to sneak some extra veggies into their diet without a fuss. These cheesy broccoli snacks offer a fantastic source of fiber and protein, keeping you feeling full and energized.
They are truly one of my favorite go-to recipes for a reason. Get ready to fall in love with these easy, healthy, and utterly delicious Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds. You deserve a treat that tastes amazing and supports your well-being.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these delectable Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds requires just a few simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely already have most of these staples in your pantry and fridge! Gathering your ingredients beforehand always makes the cooking process smoother.
* 2 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup almond flour
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, but adds lovely freshness)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking sheet, if not using parchment paper)
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about these Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds is their adaptability. You can easily tweak them to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative in your kitchen!
* Veggies: Swap out broccoli for other low-carb vegetables. Finely chopped cauliflower, spinach (ensure you squeeze out all excess water!), or grated zucchini (also squeeze out moisture!) work wonderfully. You could even use a mix of vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
* Cheese: While sharp cheddar provides a classic flavor, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella offers a milder, stringier texture. Pepper Jack adds a delightful spicy kick.
Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses also perform beautifully in these broccoli cheddar rounds.
* Flour: If you prefer, you can substitute the almond flour with coconut flour. Remember, coconut flour is much more absorbent, so you will likely need only half the amount (start with 2 tablespoons and adjust if necessary).
This substitution will also affect the texture slightly.
* Herbs & Spices: Fresh chives or dill would be excellent additions alongside or instead of parsley. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat.
Smoked paprika can give these cheesy broccoli snacks a lovely depth of flavor. You can also vary the seasonings to match your meal – perhaps a touch of Italian seasoning or a hint of curry powder for something different.
* Add-ins: Elevate your Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds even further with savory additions.
Cooked, crumbled turkey bacon bits, finely diced cooked chicken, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top before baking can add extra texture and flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) also make a great inclusion.
* Dairy-Free/Vegan: For a dairy-free version, use your favorite plant-based shredded cheese.
For a vegan option, substitute the eggs with a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) for each egg. Adjust the almond flour slightly if the mixture feels too wet.
One of the best things about these Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds is their adaptability. You can easily tweak them to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative in your kitchen! For more inspiration, check out our Cheeseburger Soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these delicious Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of savory, cheesy goodness ready in no time.
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil.
2. Chop the Broccoli: Next, finely chop the fresh broccoli florets. You want them very small, almost rice-like, so they incorporate well into the mixture and cook evenly. A food processor can make this step quick and easy, just pulse until finely chopped but not pureed.
3. Remove Excess Moisture (Crucial Step!): Place the finely chopped broccoli in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
This step is absolutely essential for preventing soggy Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds and ensuring they crisp up nicely. Don’t skip it!
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed broccoli, beaten eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, almond flour, fresh parsley (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Mix Thoroughly: Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
I find using my hands is the best way to ensure everything is evenly distributed and forms a cohesive mixture. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
6. Form the Rounds: Now, scoop out about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each round. Roll it into a ball, then gently flatten it into a disc, about 1/2 inch thick and 2 inches in diameter. Place the formed rounds onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds are golden brown around the edges and cooked through.
They should feel firm to the touch.
8. Cool and Serve: Finally, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Let the rounds cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up further. Serve these delightful broccoli cheddar rounds warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
Making perfect Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds is simple, but a few professional tips can elevate your results from good to absolutely fantastic. As a baker, I’ve learned that small details make a big difference!
* Squeeze That Broccoli! I cannot stress this enough: thoroughly squeeze out all the excess moisture from your chopped broccoli. This is the single most important step for preventing soggy rounds and ensuring a crispy exterior.
Use a sturdy kitchen towel and really wring it out. Skipping this step leads to soft, crumbly broccoli fritters low carb.
* Finely Chop, Don’t Puree: While you want the broccoli finely chopped, avoid turning it into a paste.
You still want some texture. A food processor works wonders here; just use short pulses to achieve a rice-like consistency.
* Don’t Overmix: Once you combine all the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated.
Overmixing can lead to tougher Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds. Gentle handling keeps them tender.
* Even Sizing Matters: Try to make your rounds roughly the same size and thickness.
This ensures they bake evenly. Inconsistent sizes mean some might burn while others remain undercooked.
* Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Always use parchment paper!
It prevents sticking, helps the rounds brown beautifully, and makes cleanup effortless.
* Check for Doneness: Look for golden-brown edges and a firm texture. If they seem too soft, give them a few more minutes in the oven.
Oven temperatures can vary, so always trust your eyes and touch.
* Cool on a Rack: Letting your Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds cool on a wire rack for a few minutes after baking allows air to circulate, preventing sogginess and helping them firm up before serving.
* Season to Taste: Before forming all the rounds, fry a tiny bit of the mixture in a pan.
Taste it and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed. This ensures your entire batch of healthy cheese rounds is perfectly seasoned.
* Don’t Rush the Flip: If you decide to pan-fry a few, don’t flip them too early.
Allow a good crust to form on the first side before turning, otherwise, they might break apart. Baking is generally the easiest method for these delicate cheesy broccoli snacks.
Making perfect Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds is simple, but a few professional tips can elevate your results from good to absolutely fantastic. As a baker, I’ve learned that small details make a big difference! For additional tips on cooking, you can explore our Chinese Beef and Broccoli.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds are so delicious, they rarely last long! However, if you manage to have some leftovers, or if you’re a fan of meal prepping, knowing how to properly store and reheat them is key to maintaining their deliciousness and texture.
Storage:
* Refrigerator: Once completely cooled, store your Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Layering them with a piece of parchment paper can prevent them from sticking together.
* Freezer: These broccoli cheddar rounds freeze beautifully!
Arrange the fully cooled rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Freezing them individually first prevents them from clumping together.
Reheating:
* Oven (Recommended for Best Texture): For the crispiest results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen or refrigerated Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes (if refrigerated) or 15-20 minutes (if frozen), until heated through and crispy.
* Air Fryer (Excellent Option!): An air fryer works wonders for reheating these healthy cheese rounds, restoring much of their original crispiness. Place the rounds in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes (if refrigerated) or 8-12 minutes (if frozen), shaking the basket halfway through.
* Microwave: While convenient, the microwave will make the Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds softer and less crispy. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual rounds for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. This method is best if you don’t mind a softer texture for your cheesy broccoli snacks.
No matter how you reheat them, these amazing Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds remain a fantastic, convenient option for a quick meal or snack.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These versatile Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds are truly a chameleon in the kitchen! They pair beautifully with a wide array of dishes, making them suitable for almost any meal of the day.
* As a Side Dish: Serve these savory rounds alongside grilled chicken breast, baked salmon, or a perfectly seared steak. They make an excellent, healthy alternative to traditional potato or rice sides. Their cheesy flavor complements roasted turkey or a simple pan-fried white fish beautifully.
* With Soup or Salad: Create a light and satisfying lunch by pairing a few Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds with a fresh, vibrant green salad dressed with a vinaigrette. They’re also wonderful dipped into a creamy tomato soup or a hearty vegetable broth.
* Breakfast or Brunch: Don’t limit these to dinner!
Enjoy them with scrambled eggs, a frittata, or alongside some turkey sausage for a high-protein, low-carb start to your day.
* Snack Time: These healthy cheese rounds shine on their own as a fantastic grab-and-go snack. They’re much more satisfying than typical processed snacks and keep you full longer.
* Dipping Sauces: Elevate your experience with a flavorful dipping sauce. A dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with fresh herbs, a sugar-free marinara sauce, or even a simple low-carb ranch dressing would be delicious alongside these keto broccoli bites.
* Build a Platter: For entertaining, arrange your Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds on a platter with other low-carb appetizers like olives, cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices. They’re a crowd-pleaser!
Truly, the possibilities are endless for incorporating these delicious broccoli cheddar rounds into your meals. They add a boost of flavor and nutrition wherever they go.
These versatile Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds are truly a chameleon in the kitchen! They pair beautifully with a wide array of dishes, making them suitable for almost any meal of the day. If you’re looking for a delightful main dish to accompany them, consider trying our Honey Garlic Sausage & Sweet Potatoes.
FAQs
Here are some common questions I hear about making these delightful Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds. I hope these answers help you achieve perfect results every time!
Are these Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds gluten-free?
Yes, absolutely! This recipe specifically uses almond flour, which is a naturally gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat flour. Therefore, these delicious Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds are a fantastic option for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Just ensure all your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free if you have a severe intolerance.
Can I make these Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds ahead of time?
Yes, you certainly can! These cheesy broccoli snacks are perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready, simply form and bake the rounds. Alternatively, you can bake them fully, let them cool, and then store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage. They reheat beautifully, maintaining their flavor and much of their texture.
How do I prevent my broccoli rounds from being soggy?
The key to preventing soggy Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds lies in thoroughly squeezing out excess moisture from the chopped broccoli. After chopping, place the broccoli in a clean kitchen towel and wring out as much liquid as possible. If the mixture still feels too wet, you can add a tiny bit more almond flour, but the squeezing step is critical. Additionally, baking them until golden brown and firm helps achieve a crispier exterior.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for these healthy cheese rounds. However, it’s even more important to thaw it completely and then squeeze out all the excess water. Frozen broccoli often contains more moisture than fresh. Thaw it, pat it dry, and then squeeze it in a towel to ensure your broccoli fritters low carb don’t turn out watery.
Are these Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds good for kids?
Absolutely! Many children love these Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds. They’re cheesy, savory, and the round shape is appealing.
It’s an excellent way to introduce more vegetables into their diet in a fun and delicious format. You can even involve them in the cooking process, letting them help form the rounds. My own nieces and nephews gobble up these sugar-free broccoli rounds!
Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds combine the rich taste of cheese with the health benefits of broccoli, making them a nutritious snack or side. These dishes highlight the versatility of vegetables in low-carb cooking, emphasizing their role in healthy diets, as seen in this nutrition overview.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Approximate values based on 10 rounds per recipe)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 10 rounds 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Low Carb Broccoli Cheese Rounds are flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for a healthy lifestyle. With cheesy broccoli florets, these rounds are low in carbs and gluten-free, making them an ideal snack or side dish.
Ingredients
2 cups Fresh Broccoli Florets
2 large Eggs, beate
1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1/4 cup Almond Flour
2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Finely chop the fresh broccoli florets
- Squeeze out excess moisture from the chopped broccoli using a kitchen towel
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed broccoli, beaten eggs, cheddar cheese, almond flour, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined
- Scoop out around 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture, form into balls, and flatten into discs
- Place the formed rounds on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brow
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack
Notes
Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out moisture from broccoli to prevent sogginess.
You can substitute almond flour with coconut flour but use less coconut flour due to its absorbency.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 round
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg