Broccoli Rice Balls Recipe

Introduction

Broccoli Rice Balls are a tasty and nutritious snack that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and veggies. These cheesy, bite-sized delights are easy to make and loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (microwavable for convenience)
• 1 cup finely chopped cooked broccoli florets (steamed from frozen is fine)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin if using that method.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, and garlic powder. Stir well until all ingredients are fully mixed.
3. Step 3: For the hand-rolled method, scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Squeeze tightly to help them hold their shape.
4. Step 4: For the muffin tin method, press the mixture firmly into the cups of a mini muffin tin, filling them to the top.
5. Step 5: Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet (or in the muffin tin) and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden and firm.
6. Step 6: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, especially to toddlers.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
• Use different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
• For a crispier texture, lightly brush the rice balls with olive oil before baking.
• These can be made gluten-free by ensuring the rice and seasonings have no added gluten-containing ingredients.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep them crispy. You can also freeze the rice balls before baking; freeze on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag and bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh broccoli works great. Just steam or cook it until tender before finely chopping and mixing in.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg and use a plant-based cheese alternative. Keep in mind texture and binding may vary slightly.

Broccoli Rice Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 440 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12–16 rice balls 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious and nutritious Broccoli Rice Balls made with cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, and seasoned with garlic powder. These savory bites are baked to golden perfection, making a perfect snack or toddler-friendly appetizer that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably microwavable for ease)
• 1 cup finely chopped cooked broccoli florets (steamed from frozen)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin if you prefer shaping the rice balls that way.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, finely chopped steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Shape the Rice Balls (Hand-rolled method): Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a tight ball using your hands. Squeezing firmly helps the balls hold their shape during baking.
4. Shape the Rice Balls (Muffin tin method): Alternatively, firmly press the mixture into the cups of a mini muffin tin, filling each cup to the top to form compact, uniform shapes.
5. Bake: Arrange the rice balls on the prepared baking sheet or keep them in the muffin tin and bake in the oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until the balls are lightly golden and firm to the touch.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the broccoli rice balls to cool for a few minutes before serving, making them perfect and safe especially for toddlers to enjoy.

Notes

• You can use fresh or frozen broccoli but ensure it’s well steamed and finely chopped.
• Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharp flavor and helps bind the mixture along with the egg.
• Adjust the size of rice balls according to your preference; smaller sizes work well as finger foods.
• For added texture, consider adding breadcrumbs to the mixture if desired, but note it will change the texture and nutrition.
• These can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Broccoli Rice Balls, baked rice snacks, toddler-friendly recipe, cheesy broccoli bites, easy baked appetizers