Ingredients
- 1 lb (16 oz / 450g) Broccoli florets
- 0.5 cup (4 fl oz / 120ml) Veggie stock
- 2 whole (approx. 1.7 oz / 50g) Shallots, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp. (0.5 fl oz / 15ml) Olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup (4 oz / 112g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp. (0.1 oz / 4g) Cilantro, freshly chopped
How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Bites
- Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and let it preheat.
- Add 1 tbsp. (15ml) olive oil and the chopped shallots to the pot, stirring to cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Pour in 0.5 cup (120ml) of veggie stock, then stir in the 1 lb (450g) of broccoli florets and 1 tbsp. (4g) of chopped cilantro until well mixed.
- Sprinkle the 1 cup (112g) of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the broccoli mixture.
- Seal the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook for 8 minutes on Manual mode at High pressure.
- Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully vent any remaining steam and open the lid.
- Serve the warm Cheesy Broccoli Bites immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this recipe:
- Calories: 149 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 12.1g
- Fiber: 3g
Pro Tips
As a chef, I always look for ways to elevate simple dishes. Here are a few expert tips to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Fresh, Uniform Florets: Always opt for fresh broccoli over frozen for the best texture. Make sure to cut the florets into uniform, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly under pressure.
- Don't Skip the Sauté: Taking the 2 minutes to sauté the shallots in oil is crucial. It releases their natural sugars and builds a deep flavor foundation that infuses into the veggie stock and the broccoli.
- Broil for a Crusty Top: If you love golden, bubbly cheese, carefully remove the stainless steel inner pot (using oven mitts) after the pressure releases and pop it under your oven's broiler for 1-2 minutes just before serving.
- Drain Excess Liquid: Instant Pots rely on steam, which means there might be a little leftover stock at the bottom of the pot. Use a slotted spoon when serving to plate the perfect bite without making your plate watery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen broccoli to make Cheesy Broccoli Bites? While fresh broccoli is highly recommended to maintain a slight crunch, you can use frozen broccoli in a pinch. If using frozen, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to prevent the florets from becoming mushy, as they are already blanched prior to freezing.
How do I store and reheat leftover Cheesy Broccoli Bites? Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish for 60-90 seconds, or pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly again.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella? Absolutely! While mozzarella provides a wonderful, gooey melt, you can easily swap it for sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a provolone blend depending on your flavor preferences. Cheddar will give the dish a sharper, more classic broccoli-and-cheese flavor profile.
Is this recipe low-carb and keto-friendly? Yes! With only about 9 grams of total carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber per serving, these Cheesy Broccoli Bites are an excellent low-carb, keto-friendly side dish that fits perfectly into a variety of healthy diets.
