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Kid-Friendly Broccoli Cheese Sticks


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  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Yield: 12-15 sticks
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Kid-Friendly Broccoli Cheese Sticks are a fun and tasty way to get kids to eat more veggies. With a crispy, cheesy exterior and a creamy, veggie-packed center, these baked treats are perfect as a snack, side dish, or lunchbox addition. They’re healthy, indulgent, and a hit with picky eaters!


Ingredients

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium-sized head)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

1 large egg

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil spray (for baking)

For serving (optional):

Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Ranch dressing (for dipping)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the broccoli: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Once steamed, chop the broccoli finely.
  2. Make the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the finely chopped broccoli and mix until combined.
  3. Prepare the egg: Beat the egg in a small bowl and add it to the mixture. Stir until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a little water or milk.
  4. Shape the cheese sticks: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into 2-3 inch sticks. Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake: Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the sticks are golden and crispy on the outside.
  6. Serve: Let the sticks cool slightly before serving. Serve with marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.
  7. Enjoy: These cheesy, crispy broccoli sticks are perfect for a healthy snack or meal!

Notes

For extra veggies, add finely chopped carrots or zucchini to the broccoli mixture.

Use cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor.

For extra crunch, roll the sticks in crushed crackers or cornflakes before baking.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: undefined
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stick
  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg