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Broccoli Nuggets

These Broccoli Nuggets are crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, and packed with real vegetables that kids (and adults) will actually love to eat. Perfect as a healthy snack, school lunch, or side dish, these golden bites are baked to perfection — crunchy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz bag frozen broccoli florets thawed and drained
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup bread crumbs regular or whole wheat
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Preheat and prep:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Chop the broccoli:

  • Finely chop thawed broccoli florets until they resemble coarse crumbs. You can use a food processor for quicker results, but avoid over-blending.

Mix the base:

  • In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, eggs, bread crumbs, cheddar cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
  • Stir well until everything is evenly mixed and holds together.

Shape the nuggets:

  • Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mixture and shape it into small ovals or nugget shapes.
  • Arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake until golden:

  • Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are crisp and golden brown on both sides.

Serve:

  • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces — ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or even a light yogurt dip.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness: Spray the nuggets lightly with oil before baking.
  • Cheese swaps: Try mozzarella or parmesan for a different flavor.
  • Make ahead: Freeze the shaped nuggets before baking; bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.
  • Kid-friendly twist: Mix in finely grated carrots or zucchini for extra veggies.
  • Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.