Getting your kids to eat their veggies can be a challenge, but what if you could make it fun and delicious at the same time? Broccoli is one of those superfoods that’s packed with nutrients and has numerous health benefits, making it a great addition to any meal. But let’s face it – kids can be picky! That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 fun broccoli recipes that are sure to please even the most finicky eaters. From cheesy bites to quesadillas and pasta dishes, we’ve got you covered with these kid-friendly recipes that just happen to feature one of the healthiest veggies around.
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of tender broccoli and melted cheese, wrapped up in a crispy package. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a tasty snack ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli and cheese.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired bite size.
4. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Dip each disk into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place the bites onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Quesadillas
Get ready to elevate the humble quesadilla with this delicious and easy-to-make recipe, featuring steamed broccoli and melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together steamed broccoli and shredded cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with the broccoli-cheese mixture.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Broccoli Tots
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these crispy and delicious Broccoli Tots! Made with a blend of broccoli, potatoes, and cheese, these tasty bites are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, combine broccoli, potato, and cheese. Process until well combined.
3. Add flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish combines the classic comfort food of macaroni and cheese with the nutritional benefits of steamed broccoli, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Steam broccoli florets until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
7. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
9. Combine cooked macaroni, steamed broccoli, and cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Pizza Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and nutritious broccoli pizza muffins, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh broccoli florets
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, cheese, broccoli, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, combine yogurt, egg, and olive oil. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture; stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Broccoli Pasta with Hidden Veggie Sauce
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy broccoli pasta dish, packed with hidden veggies! This recipe is a clever way to get your family to eat their greens without even realizing it.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cooked carrots (steamed or roasted)
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp. dried basil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine broccoli, carrots, pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and basil. Blend until smooth.
3. Toss cooked pasta with the hidden veggie sauce, ensuring the noodles are well coated.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Chicken Nuggets
This recipe combines the flavors of crispy chicken nuggets with steamed broccoli, making it a great option for a quick and healthy meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have this tasty dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip chicken pieces into the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Steam broccoli florets in the microwave according to package instructions.
8. Serve hot with steamed broccoli and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Broccoli Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of steamed broccoli and melted cheddar. This unexpected combination creates a delightful flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with steamed broccoli, followed by grated cheddar cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes per sandwich
Broccoli Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast game with these nutritious and delicious broccoli pancakes! Made with fresh broccoli florets and a hint of garlic, these savory bites are perfect for a quick morning meal or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine broccoli, flour, oats, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, melted butter, and garlic.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop tablespoonfuls of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as lemon wedges, chopped herbs, or sour cream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes per batch
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
Transform ordinary baked potatoes into a satisfying and flavorful meal by filling them with a delicious mixture of steamed broccoli, melted cheese, and creamy sour cream. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender.
3. Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the steamed broccoli and stir until coated with butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slice the baked potatoes in half lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
6. Divide the broccoli mixture among the potato halves, followed by the shredded cheese and dollop of sour cream.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Broccoli Smoothie with Banana and Honey
This refreshing smoothie combines the nutritional benefits of broccoli with the natural sweetness of banana and honey, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the broccoli, banana, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, with no cooking required.
Broccoli and Corn Fritters
Start your day with a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fritters! These broccoli and corn fritters are packed with nutritious ingredients and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, combine broccoli, corn, and buttermilk. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the beaten egg to the broccoli mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a thick batter forms.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil and fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of fritters)
Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, and our recipe makes it easy to prepare at home. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a deliciously creamy broccoli-filled pasta in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined with the butter and garlic mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy broccoli sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Carrot Muffins
Start your day with a nutritious boost from these moist and flavorful muffins, packed with the goodness of broccoli and carrots. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, egg, broccoli, carrot, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Broccoli Popcorn
Transform your snack time with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the crunch of popcorn with the nutritional benefits of broccoli! This tasty treat is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy alternative to traditional movie snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup popped popcorn kernels
– 1/2 cup steamed broccoli florets (cooled)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the cooled broccoli florets and olive oil.
3. Add the lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Pour the popcorn kernels into a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the broccoli mixture evenly over the popcorn.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the popcorn is crispy.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli and Sweet Potato Mash
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutritious goodness of broccoli, all blended together in a creamy and comforting mash. Perfect as a side dish or a base for your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes and broccoli in a large bowl with olive oil, onion, and garlic until tender, about 30 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, boil or steam the roasted vegetables until tender.
4. Mash the sweet potatoes and broccoli together with butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Taste and adjust as needed. If desired, stir in grated cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of rich flavors and velvety texture, with the added bonus of being incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in 1/2 cup cheddar cheese until melted. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Return soup to pot, add heavy cream or half-and-half, and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with remaining cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Ham Roll-Ups
These bite-sized roll-ups are a delicious combination of steamed broccoli, savory ham, and creamy cheese. Perfect for parties or gatherings, they’re easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli, steamed
– 6 slices cooked ham, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 10-12 tortilla wraps (flour or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together steamed broccoli and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Place a slice of ham on each tortilla wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the broccoli-cream cheese mixture onto the ham.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the broccoli mixture.
6. Roll up each tortilla tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the nutrients of broccoli with the simplicity of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using water or chicken broth.
3. In a separate pot, steam broccoli florets until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, milk, and butter. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Apple Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of apples with the earthiness of broccoli, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The crunch from the apple and the slight bitterness from the broccoli create a delightful flavor balance.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the broccoli florets with your hands for about 2 minutes to help release its natural sweetness.
2. Add the diced apple, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, so no cooking required.
Summary
Get your kids to eat their greens with these fun and delicious broccoli recipes! From cheesy bites to pizza muffins, there’s something for everyone. Try making Cheesy Broccoli Bites, Broccoli and Cheese Quesadillas, or even Broccoli Tots that are perfect for a snack or meal. For a twist on classic mac and cheese, add some steamed broccoli for a nutritional boost. You’ll also find recipes for broccoli-grilled cheese sandwiches, pancakes, smoothies, and more! With these tasty and easy-to-make recipes, you can get your kids to love broccoli as much as they love their favorite foods.
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