9 Easy Broccoli Recipes For Kids (That They’ll Like!)

When it comes to feeding your kids broccoli, it’s a bit of a challenge, isn’t it? Some kids absolutely love it, while others—well, let’s just say they’re not the biggest fans. Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can serve, packed with nutrients and a versatile addition to any meal.

Whether you’re using fresh or frozen broccoli, you can still get that same delicious flavor. But let’s be real, broccoli isn’t always the first choice on a kid’s plate. The good news is that switching up how you prepare and serve it can make all the difference. Today, I’m excited to share a roundup of broccoli recipes for kids that they might actually enjoy, making this superfood a bit more kid-friendly.

How To Cook Broccoli For Kids

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about how to cook broccoli for kids. It’s all about making the texture and flavor something they’ll want to come back to.

One trick is to roast frozen broccoli. Roasting brings out a sweeter, less bitter flavor that kids love. Another tip is to steam broccoli florets just until tender, so they’re soft enough for little ones but still have some bite for older kids. And if you’re introducing broccoli to babies, try adding it to your baby led weaning menu—it’s a great way to get them started on greens early.

Got your own tips for cooking broccoli that your kids love? Drop them in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you make this veggie a hit at your house.

Broccoli Recipes For Kids

These broccoli recipes for kids are packed with flavor and nutrients, making it easy to get your little ones excited about eating their greens.

Broccoli Tots

Broccoli tots are the perfect finger foods for kids. These bite-sized goodies are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a fun way to get kids to eat their veggies.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Chop the broccoli into small pieces and mix it with the grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg in a large bowl.
3. Form the mixture into small tot shapes and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

These broccoli tots are great as side dishes or a quick snack, and they only take about 20 minutes from start to finish!

Cheesy Broccoli Bites

Cheesy broccoli bites are another great way to get your kids excited about eating broccoli. The gooey cheese inside makes these bites irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a mini muffin tin with olive oil.
2. In a bowl, mix the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg until well combined.
3. Spoon the mixture into the mini muffin tin, pressing down slightly.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the tops are golden and crispy.

These cheesy bites are perfect for older kids who need a little extra motivation to eat their greens.

Broccoli Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Roasted broccoli is a simple but delicious way to serve broccoli that kids will actually ask for. The secret? Grated parmesan cheese!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the broccoli out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20 minutes, until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted.

This roasted broccoli recipe is a fantastic side dish that pairs well with almost any main course.

Broccoli and Cheese Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a kid favorite, and adding broccoli to the mix is a sneaky way to boost their veggie intake.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half with shredded cheese, chopped broccoli, and then more cheese on top.
3. Fold the tortilla over and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
4. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Serve these quesadillas with your kids’ favorite dipping sauce. They’re easy to make and can be on the table in less than 20 minutes.

Broccoli Mac and Cheese

A kid-approved classic gets a healthy boost with steamed broccoli added to cheesy, creamy mac and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups macaroni pasta
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer until it thickens.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Mix the cooked macaroni and broccoli florets into the cheese sauce.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Broccoli gets a tasty twist in this pesto pasta that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. The fresh basil and parmesan make it flavorful yet simple.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pasta of choice
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and drain.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender.
3. In a food processor, blend the broccoli, basil, parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the broccoli pesto.
5. Serve as a delicious and healthy main dish.

Broccoli and Cheddar Muffins

These savory broccoli and cheddar muffins are an easy grab-and-go snack packed with veggies. They’re soft, cheesy, and perfect for little hands.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with paper cups.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, olive oil, and egg.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped broccoli and cheddar cheese.
5. Spoon the batter into the muffin tin and bake for 20 minutes.

Broccoli Cheese Soup

This is one of my favorites! Creamy and comforting, this broccoli cheese soup is a kid-friendly classic.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the broccoli florets and broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in the milk and cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

Broccoli and Ham Frittata

This broccoli and ham frittata is a protein-packed meal that’s perfect for breakfast or dinner. The mix of broccoli, cheese, and ham makes it irresistible for kids.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced ham
• 6 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the chopped broccoli, ham, and shredded cheese.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased oven-safe skillet.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until the frittata is set and golden on top.

Broccoli Pancakes

Turn broccoli into a savory pancake that kids will devour. They’re easy to make and packed with grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped broccoli and parmesan cheese.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with olive oil.
5. Spoon the batter onto the skillet to form pancakes, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Here are six more broccoli recipes that are perfect for busy parents looking for healthy and delicious meals that kids will actually enjoy.

Broccoli and Potato Cakes

These crispy broccoli and potato cakes are a fun way to sneak in veggies that even picky eaters will love. Perfect as a finger food or side dish!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Olive oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, chopped broccoli, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and egg until combined.
2. Form the mixture into small patties.
3. Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
4. Serve as a fun and tasty finger food or side dish.

These recipes should give you plenty of options to make broccoli a hit with your kids!

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