Crispy Broccoli and Potato Bites – The Ultimate Veggie Snack or Side

A Satisfying Veggie Fix from Shaym

Last winter, during one of those days when you just want to snack on something warm and crispy, I had leftover mashed potatoes and a head of broccoli staring at me from the fridge. Instead of reheating them the usual way, I tried something playful: mixing them with cheese, shaping them into small patties, and baking until golden.

The result? These Crispy Broccoli and Potato Bites, a crunchy, cheesy, satisfying side that has quickly become one of my go-tos. They’re great for family dinners, holiday buffets, or even as a wholesome midday snack. Best part? No deep frying required.

---

Why These Bites Work

Broccoli and potatoes may sound basic, but combined with garlic, cheese, and a crisp breadcrumb coating, they transform into something crave-worthy. These bites are baked, not fried, but still have that golden crust we all love.

You can serve them on a party platter, tuck them into lunchboxes, or use them as a side for mains like these chicken cutlets or air fryer salmon bites. They’re especially perfect with a creamy dip or homemade ketchup.

---

Recipe: Crispy Broccoli and Potato Bites

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled until fork-tender
• 1 cup shredded cheddar (or Gruyère for a sharper flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or thyme, chopped

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment or lightly grease it.
2. Mash the potatoes in a large bowl. Add chopped broccoli, cheese, onion (if using), garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Mix until well combined.
3. Form into bites: Take 1–2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls or flatten slightly into patties.
4. Coat each in additional breadcrumbs for extra crispness.
5. Arrange on tray and lightly brush with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy on both sides.
7. Serve warm, ideally with a dipping sauce like garlic yogurt or creamy ranch.

---

Variations & Tips

• Want more flavor? Add a pinch of paprika, chili flakes, or Parmesan to the mix.
• Make it gluten-free by using almond flour or GF breadcrumbs.
• These reheat beautifully in an air fryer, or try pairing them with these air fryer pasta chips for a crispy snack board.

---

When to Serve

These broccoli and potato bites are a hit at casual gatherings, lunchboxes, or as a light dinner with a salad. They’re also a sneaky way to get picky eaters to eat more greens, without complaint.

If you love this style of food, you’ll probably enjoy my high-protein vegetarian recipes that also turn simple ingredients into something craveable.

---

Final Thought from Shaym

There’s something magic about taking kitchen scraps and turning them into something that disappears from the plate in minutes. These Crispy Broccoli and Potato Bites are exactly that kind of magic, rustic, reliable, and always rewarding.

They prove that comfort food can be veggie-packed, oven-baked, and still get a standing ovation at dinner.

Print