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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
