Getting picky eaters to embrace veggies can be a daily battle—but not with these Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bites. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, melty cheese, and finely chopped broccoli, these bite-sized snacks are designed to please both tiny taste buds and health-conscious parents. They’re soft enough for babies just starting solids, hearty enough for toddler lunches, and delicious enough that even older kids (and adults!) sneak a few.
Whether you serve them for lunch, pack them in schoolboxes, or use them as finger food for baby-led weaning, these broccoli bites are the ultimate win-win: nourishing and kid-approved.
Why You’ll Love These Quinoa Bites
🧀 Kid-Friendly Flavor: Cheese makes everything better, even broccoli.
🌱 Veggie-Packed: Sneaky way to get greens into growing bellies.
💪 High in Protein: Thanks to quinoa, eggs, and cheese.
👶 Baby-Led Weaning Approved: Soft, handheld, and easy to chew.
🧊 Freezer-Friendly: Batch cook and store for busy weeks.
🥣 One Bowl, Minimal Mess: Easy to prep and even easier to clean up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These bites come together with simple, wholesome ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (about ⅓ cup dry)
- 1 cup steamed broccoli, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, skip for babies under 12 months)
- Pinch of salt (optional, omit for babies under 1 year)
- 1–2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (optional for older toddlers)
How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bites
Step 1: Cook Quinoa
Rinse ⅓ cup quinoa under water, then cook in ⅔ cup water until fluffy. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Steam chopped broccoli until soft. Finely mince or pulse in a food processor if needed for small eaters.
Step 3: Mix Everything
In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chopped broccoli, cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Stir until mixture holds together.
Step 4: Scoop and Shape
Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, form 1½ inch balls or flatten into mini patties.
Step 5: Bake or Pan-Fry
- To bake: Place on parchment-lined tray and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- To pan-fry: Cook in lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Storage & Freezing
🧊 Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🧊 Freezer: Flash-freeze on a tray, then transfer to zip-top bags. Keeps for up to 2 months.
🔥 Reheat: Warm in microwave, toaster oven, or skillet until heated through.
Nutritional Benefits (Per 2 Bites)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~90 kcal |
| Protein | ~5g |
| Carbs | ~7g |
| Fat | ~4g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Iron | ~0.8 mg |
| Calcium | ~50 mg |
Note: Nutrition may vary slightly depending on cheese and add-ins.
Customizations & Variations
Gluten-Free: Use oat flour or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace eggs with flax eggs.
Add-ins: Try adding:
- Finely grated carrots
- Peas or sweetcorn
- Chopped spinach or kale
- A spoonful of mashed sweet potato or butternut squash
Mini Muffin Version: Scoop mixture into mini muffin tins and bake for 15–18 minutes.
Frequently Asked Question
Can babies eat these?
Yes! If your baby has started solids and can handle soft finger foods, these are great. Skip salt and strong spices for babies under 1.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely. These freeze and reheat beautifully, so make a double batch!
What age are these suitable for?
Perfect from 8+ months with modifications. Toddlers and big kids love them too.
Can I serve these cold in lunchboxes?
Yes! They hold their shape and taste great chilled or at room temp.
Serving Suggestion
Serve these as:
- Finger food with hummus or yogurt dip
- Lunchbox filler with fruit and crackers
- Side dish next to grilled chicken or scrambled eggs
- Protein boost for vegetarian kids
Pair with water, smoothies, or milk for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa Bites are proof that simple, homemade food can be both nutritious and kid-approved. They’re flexible, freezer-friendly, and a surefire way to sneak in veggies and protein without complaints.
Whether you’re feeding a teething baby or a ravenous school-age kid, these bites hit the sweet spot of easy, healthy, and delicious—and they’re sure to become a staple in your home too.