If you’re looking for a way to make vegetables feel like a “guilty pleasure” without the actual guilt, look no further. These Smashed Broccoli Bites are the ultimate crispy, cheesy, and spicy snack. They’ve got everything: a crunchy cheese crust, tender greens, and a kick of heat that makes them disappear in seconds.

Whether you’re looking for a low-carb appetizer or a side dish that your kids will actually ask for seconds of, this recipe is a total game-changer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli? 

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it very dry with a paper towel before smashing. Frozen broccoli holds more moisture, so it may need an extra minute or two when you steam the broccoli.

Why isn’t my broccoli smashing easily? 

If the florets are bouncing back or breaking apart into chunks, they probably haven’t been steamed long enough. They should be “fork-tender,” meaning a fork slides in easily before you try to flatten them.

How do I keep them from sticking?

Parchment paper is your best friend here! Even with the olive oil, the cheese can get sticky. Using high-quality parchment paper ensures they slide right off the tray and onto your plate.

Creative Variations

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, try these delicious twists:

• The “Loaded” Bite: Top the finished broccoli with a dollop of sour cream, real bacon bits, and chopped chives for a “loaded potato” vibe.
• The Parmesan Crust: Swap Monterey Jack for freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Parmesan has a lower moisture content and will create a very thin, lacy, and salty “frico” crust.
• Lemon Garlic: Drizzle the broccoli with a little lemon juice and add a pinch of garlic powder before baking for a bright, zesty flavor profile.
• Vegan Style: Use a plant-based shred, and swap the olive oil for avocado oil.

Ingredients for Smashed Broccoli Bites

• 1 cup broccoli
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup Shredded Monterrey Jack Cheese
• 2 tbsp red crushed pepper
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions for Smashed Broccoli Bites

Prep the Broccoli: Start by steaming your broccoli florets for 4-6 minutes. You want them tender enough to be smashed, but not so mushy that they fall apart.

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Spray or brush it generously with olive oil. This is the secret to getting that golden-brown crust on the bottom!

The “Cheese Base”: Instead of just putting cheese on top, we’re going to layer it. Sprinkle small clumps of the shredded Monterey Jack directly onto the oiled parchment paper. Place one broccoli floret on top of each cheese clump.

Get Smashing: Using the bottom of a heavy jar or glass, gently press down on each broccoli floret until it is flattened. This increases the surface area for maximum crispiness.

Season and Top: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the smashed florets. Add your crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper.

Bake to Perfection: Pop them into the oven and bake for 5–8 minutes.

Enjoy with your favorite dip!

 How to Serve Them

These bites are incredible on their own, but they truly shine when paired with a dip. Try them with:

• Cooling Ranch: To balance out the 2 tablespoons of red pepper.
• Garlic Aioli: For a sophisticated, savory twist.
• Spicy Mayo: If you really want to lean into the heat!

More Great Broccoli Recipes

• Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Broccoli Apple Salad
• Loaded Broccoli in Creamy Garlic Sauce
• BLT Broccoli Slaw
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup