If you’re searching for a savory, satisfying dinner recipe that is low-carb, keto-friendly, and irresistibly cheesy, these crispy broccoli cheese rounds are an absolute must-try. Perfect as a main course for vegetarians or as a hearty side dish for meat-based meals, these rounds deliver a crunchy exterior with a gooey, cheesy interior, making them appealing to adults and kids alike.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping for a family gathering, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and fast. With a few wholesome ingredients and a little oven magic, you can create golden, crisp rounds that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: From prep to oven-ready in under 20 minutes.
- Keto and low-carb friendly: Uses almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Kid-approved: Even picky eaters tend to ask for seconds!
- Versatile: Works as a vegetarian main, a side dish, or even a party appetizer.
The combination of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and just the right seasoning ensures every bite is packed with flavor. The rounds bake up with a golden, crunchy shell while staying tender inside—a texture that keeps people coming back for more.
Ingredients for Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1¼ cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Flaked salt (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Tip: For extra flavor, you can experiment with smoked gouda, parmesan, or a combination of cheeses.
How to Make Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds
1. Prepare the Oven and Broccoli
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Steam the broccoli florets until tender but still bright green. Allow them to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
2. Pulse the Broccoli
Place the steamed broccoli in a food processor or blender and pulse until it reaches a rice-like texture. Be careful not to overprocess—you want small, uniform pieces that will bind well with the cheese.
3. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pulsed broccoli, grated cheddar, almond flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and slightly sticky.
4. Form the Rounds
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into rounds. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. They will spread slightly during baking, so leave enough room between each. For extra crunch, sprinkle lightly with flaked salt on top.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake the broccoli cheese rounds for 15–20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and develop a crisp outer layer. The cheese will melt inside, giving a soft, creamy center contrasted with the crunchy exterior.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and allow the rounds to cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with a fresh salad, a keto-friendly dipping sauce, or as a side to roasted chicken or fish for a complete low-carb dinner.
Variations and Tips
- Cheesy Bacon Rounds: Fold in small pieces of cooked bacon for extra flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika for a little heat.
- Mediterranean Twist: Include sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or dried herbs like oregano and basil.
- Freezer-Friendly: Bake as directed, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- As a main dish: Serve 4–5 rounds with a side of mashed cauliflower or roasted vegetables.
- As an appetizer: Offer with ranch, garlic aioli, or marinara dipping sauce.
- On a plate for dinner: Add a green salad or keto-friendly grain alternative to make it a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, 4 Rounds)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 20g
This makes it an excellent keto-friendly dinner option that’s satisfying and nutritious.
