These Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites are a delicious, wholesome snack or side that packs a nutritious punch.
Rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, they’re low in saturated fat and easy to prepare.
Perfect for quick weeknight meals or meal prep, these bites are savory, satisfying, and versatile enough to enjoy warm or cold.
25-Minute Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Muffin tin (12-cup)
- 1 Spoon or Cookie Scoop
- Oven
- Knife (for loosening bites)
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1½ cups finely chopped broccoli
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour or whole wheat
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Setting Up for Success: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Ensuring the oven reaches the proper temperature before you start baking is essential for achieving evenly cooked bites with lightly golden edges. While the oven warms up, prepare your other ingredients so everything is ready to combine.
- Prepare the Mixing Bowl – Creating a Flavor Base: Take a large mixing bowl and place it on a stable surface.This will give you enough space to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling. Using a sufficiently large bowl is key because the mixture includes both wet and dry ingredients, which need room to combine evenly.
- Add the Cooked Quinoa – Protein-Packed Foundation: Measure 1 cup of cooked quinoa and add it to the mixing bowl. Quinoa provides a nutty flavor and a protein-rich base for these bites. Make sure the quinoa is fully cooled to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely when mixed. Fluff it slightly with a fork to separate any clumps before adding the remaining ingredients.
- Incorporate the Broccoli – Adding Green Goodness: Finely chop 1½ cups of fresh broccoli florets and add them to the bowl with the quinoa. The broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and a subtle crunch to each bite.For even cooking and texture, try to chop the broccoli as uniformly as possible. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture.
- Beat and Add the Eggs – Binding the Ingredients: Crack 2 large eggs into a separate small bowl and whisk them lightly with a fork until the yolk and whites are fully combined. Pour the eggs into the quinoa and broccoli mixture. The eggs act as a natural binder, ensuring that your bites hold their shape during baking while adding extra protein.
- Mix in Cheese – Cheesy Flavor Boost: Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Cheddar adds richness, flavor, and a slight melt that helps bind the ingredients. For an extra creamy texture, you can use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Combine Dry Seasonings – Enhancing Taste: Add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a healthier option), ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder to the mixture. The flour helps stabilize the bites, while garlic and onion powder give a subtle savory depth. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Muffin Tin – Preventing Sticking: Grease a 12-cup muffin tin lightly with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. You can also line it with parchment paper if desired. Proper greasing ensures that each bite will release cleanly without breaking apart.
- Scoop the Mixture – Forming Perfect Bites: Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture into each muffin cup. Press the mixture down slightly with the back of the spoon to create a compact, uniform shape. Even sizing ensures that all bites cook evenly and are visually appealing.
- Bake Until Golden – Cooking to Perfection: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know the bites are done when the edges are lightly browned and the tops feel firm to the touch. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check for golden edges as a sign of doneness.
- Cool and Release – Final Touch: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the bites to cool for a few minutes. Once slightly cooled, run a knife gently around the edges of each bite to loosen them. This prevents sticking and helps maintain their shape when removed.
- Store or Serve – Enjoy Now or Later: Serve the bites warm as a snack, side, or appetizer. For later use, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze them in resealable plastic bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked quinoa for the best texture and flavor. Cold or day-old quinoa works great too.
- Finely chop the broccoli to ensure even baking and consistent bite sizes.
- Eggs act as a binder, but if you want a vegan option, consider using a flax egg.
- Cheddar cheese adds richness, but feel free to experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist.
- Muffin tins should be greased well to prevent sticking; silicone cups work perfectly.
- Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check for golden edges.
- These bites freeze exceptionally well, making them ideal for meal prep or grab-and-go snacks.
Chef’s Secrets: Tips For Perfect Bites
To achieve perfectly baked Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bites, focus on texture and moisture balance.
Overly wet broccoli can make the bites soggy, so pat frozen broccoli dry or squeeze out extra moisture from fresh broccoli.
Use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier melt and richer flavor.
When mixing ingredients, gently fold rather than vigorously stir to prevent breaking the quinoa grains, maintaining a light, airy bite.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika, cumin, or fresh herbs like parsley.
Small adjustments like these elevate a simple snack into a gourmet treat.
Serving Suggestions: How To Enjoy
These quinoa bites are versatile enough to be served warm as a side dish, cooled for packed lunches, or as a protein-rich snack during the day.
Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light yogurt dip for added flavor.
They also make a great addition to brunch spreads or party platters.
For a fun twist, serve alongside avocado slices or a dollop of hummus to create a balanced and satisfying mini-meal.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy, tender texture combined with the subtle crunch of broccoli.
Storage Tips: Keep Bites Fresh Longer
To maintain freshness, store baked bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to resealable plastic bags for up to three months.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through to preserve their slightly crisp exterior.
Avoid microwaving for long periods, which can make them soggy.
Proper storage ensures that these bites remain convenient, tasty, and ready for meal prep or quick snacks anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these bites vegan?
Yes! Replace the eggs with a flax or chia “egg” (1 tablespoon flax/chia seeds + 3 tablespoons water per egg, let sit 5–10 minutes) and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Baking time may remain similar, but texture will be slightly different.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water to prevent soggy bites. Finely chopping frozen broccoli after thawing helps maintain even texture.
3. Can I substitute the cheese or flour?
Yes! Any shredded cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack works.
For a healthier option, try whole wheat flour or almond flour, keeping in mind that almond flour may make the bites slightly more delicate.
4. How do I prevent the bites from sticking?
Grease the muffin tin thoroughly or use silicone cups. Allow the bites to cool slightly before running a knife around the edges for easy release.
Overfilling the muffin cups can also cause sticking.
5. Can I meal prep these for the week?
Definitely! They store well in the fridge for up to one week and freeze perfectly for up to three months.
They make an ideal grab-and-go snack or a side to complement lunches and dinners. Reheat in the oven to keep the edges lightly crisp.
