These crispy broccoli cheese nuggets are an irresistibly easy vegetarian favorite that works beautifully as a snack, side dish, or light main course. Baked until golden and packed with cheesy flavor, this recipe is simple, comforting, and perfect for the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly crispy outside with a soft, cheesy center
- Easy vegetarian recipe using everyday ingredients
- Kid-approved and great for picky eaters
- Baked or pan-fried options included
- Perfect for meal prep and freezing
Ingredients
- 250 g broccoli (fresh or frozen)
- 150 g grated cheese (Gouda or Cheddar)
- 1 egg
- 50 g breadcrumbs
- 30 g all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
For coating
- 50 g breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp oil (for brushing or frying)
Instructions
- Prepare broccoli: Divide broccoli into florets and cook in lightly salted water or steam for about 5 minutes. Let cool completely and chop very finely.
- Make the mixture: Place broccoli, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, flour, onion, garlic, and spices in a bowl. Mix well until a firm, moldable mixture forms.
- Shape nuggets: Shape the mixture into small nuggets and roll them in breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Arrange nuggets on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush lightly with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Alternative method: Pan-fry the nuggets in a small amount of oil over medium heat until golden on both sides.
Tips & Tricks
- Finely chopped broccoli helps the nuggets hold their shape
- Add paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray nuggets with oil before baking
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Vegetarian
- Method: Baking or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: German-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, Halal-friendly
Notes
Serve these nuggets with yogurt dip, garlic sauce, or ketchup. They also pair well with salads, wraps, or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 15 g
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture before chopping.
Can I make crispy broccoli cheese nuggets ahead of time?
Yes, shape them in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can these nuggets be frozen?
Absolutely. Freeze either before or after baking for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat them?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
What cheese works best?
Gouda and Cheddar melt well and deliver great flavor.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Oven or air fryer recommended
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Crispy Broccoli Cheese Nuggets – Irresistibly Easy Vegetarian Favorite
Ingredients
- 250 g broccoli fresh or frozen
- 150 g grated cheese Gouda or Cheddar
- 1 egg
- 50 g breadcrumbs
- 30 g all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove finely chopped
- Salt pepper, and nutmeg to taste
For coating
- 50 g breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp oil for brushing or frying
Instructions
- Prepare broccoli: Divide broccoli into florets and cook in lightly salted water or steam for about 5 minutes. Let cool completely and chop very finely.
- Make the mixture: Place broccoli, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, flour, onion, garlic, and spices in a bowl. Mix well until a firm, moldable mixture forms.
- Shape nuggets: Shape the mixture into small nuggets and roll them in breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Arrange nuggets on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush lightly with oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Alternative method: Pan-fry the nuggets in a small amount of oil over medium heat until golden on both sides.
Notes
Conclusion
These crispy broccoli cheese nuggets are an irresistibly easy vegetarian favorite that delivers comfort, crunch, and cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether baked or pan-fried, they’re simple to make and guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.