Getting your kids to eat healthy can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste for nutrition. Broccoli is a superfood that’s packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent addition to any meal. However, we know that kids can be picky, which is why we’ve compiled 20 fun broccoli recipes that are sure to please even the most finicky eaters.
From cheesy bites and quesadillas to pasta salads and smoothies, these creative recipes will make you wonder how you ever managed without them. And the best part? Your kids won’t even notice they’re eating a vegetable! In this article, we’ll explore some of our favorite ways to get your kids to love broccoli, so be sure to keep reading for some inspiration.
Cheesy Broccoli Bites
A delicious and easy-to-make snack that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheese, and a crispy exterior. Perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired bite size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place the disks onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the bites and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Quesadillas
These quesadillas combine the creaminess of melted cheese with the crunch of steamed broccoli, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect as a snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli, onion, and garlic.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the broccoli mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with one-quarter of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli Tots
Get creative with this tasty twist on traditional tater tots by incorporating nutritious broccoli into the mix! These bite-sized snacks are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a great addition to your next party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together broccoli, cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beaten egg and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the dough into small tots (about 1 inch/2.5 cm in size).
5. Place the tots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic with a nutritious twist! This recipe combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with the added nutrition of steamed broccoli, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese, and broccoli in the saucepan. Stir until well coated.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Broccoli Pizza Trees
These mini pizza trees are a fun twist on traditional pizza, featuring crispy breadsticks wrapped around a bed of creamy broccoli and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped broccoli and mozzarella cheese.
3. Cut the dough into 4-6 pieces, depending on how large you want your “trees” to be.
4. Wrap each piece of dough around a spoonful of the broccoli-mozzarella mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Place the trees on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
Start your meal with a comforting bowl of this creamy soup, packed with the nutritious goodness of broccoli and the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
3. Pour in broth and milk. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together flour and a splash of the hot soup broth until smooth. Stir into the soup and cook for 1-2 minutes or until thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Pasta Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this creamy broccoli pasta salad is a delightful combination of tender pasta, crisp broccoli, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli florets over medium heat until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and dressing in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Chill salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Nuggets
Looking for a healthy and tasty snack that’s perfect for kids and adults alike? Look no further! This recipe for broccoli nuggets is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be enjoyed as a side dish or on-the-go snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse broccoli florets until they resemble small nuggets.
3. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each broccoli nugget into the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the nuggets and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
Perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying meal on-the-go, these Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy delight. With the added nutrition of broccoli, you’ll feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, sauté broccoli in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cut a slit along the top of each potato and fluff out the flesh with a fork.
5. Divide the broccoli mixture among the potatoes, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Return potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour
Broccoli Smoothie with Hidden Veggies
This refreshing smoothie packs a nutritious punch by sneaking in some extra veggies, making it perfect for kids and adults alike who want to get their daily dose of greens.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use frozen broccoli for a thicker, colder smoothie or fresh broccoli for a lighter texture.
– Substitute other fruits like berries or mango for a different flavor profile.
– Add a handful of spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost (it’s hidden among the pineapple and banana!).
Broccoli and Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe is a classic combination of protein-rich chicken and nutritious broccoli, cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil and sauté broccoli and garlic for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of steamed broccoli and melted cheddar. This unique combination creates a satisfying and healthy twist on a comfort food classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup 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 broccoli florets, followed by cheddar cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the nutritious goodness of broccoli with the creaminess of cheese, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine broccoli, cheese, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Broccoli Fritters
These crispy and flavorful fritters are a great way to get your daily dose of greens. Made with blanched broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumbs, they’re perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine broccoli, flour, cheese, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Add it to the broccoli mixture and mix until just combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture onto 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 golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Rice Casserole
This classic comfort food recipe combines flavorful broccoli, creamy rice, and a crispy topping for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, milk, cheddar cheese, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the casserole.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Pancakes
A delicious twist on traditional pancakes, these broccoli-infused treats are packed with nutrients and flavor. Perfect as a side dish or main course, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add grated broccoli, egg, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Omelet
Start your day with a flavorful and nutritious breakfast that’s packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. This simple recipe combines the goodness of broccoli, cheese, and eggs in one delicious omelet.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to set.
3. Add the broccoli florets on one half of the omelet and sprinkle with cheese.
4. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelet over the filling.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully set.
6. Slide the omelet out of the pan onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Broccoli and Carrot Slaw
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this broccoli and carrot slaw is perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or enjoying as a side dish. With its crunchy texture and subtle sweetness, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of broccoli florets
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli-carrot mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Stir in chopped parsley.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Broccoli and Pea Puree for Toddlers
This simple and healthy puree is perfect for introducing your little ones to the world of vegetables. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tasty and nutritious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon breast milk or formula (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the peas and continue cooking for another minute, or until they’re tender as well.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. If desired, add breast milk or formula to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this delicious and satisfying recipe that combines the richness of cheese with the crunch of broccoli. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Cut a horizontal slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the broccoli-cheese mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of forcing your kids to eat broccoli? Worry no more! This article shares 20 fun and delicious recipes that feature broccoli as the star ingredient. From cheesy bites to quesadillas, mac and cheese, and even a broccoli smoothie with hidden veggies, there’s something for every kid (and parent!) to enjoy. These creative recipes will make mealtime a breeze and ensure your little ones are getting their daily dose of nutrients. Get cooking and see the smile on your child’s face when they take a bite!
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