Broccoli, a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals, is unfortunately not a favorite vegetable for many kids. Parents often have to resort to tricks and bribes just to get their little ones to take a bite.

But what if we told you that there are broccoli recipes out there that will not only make your kids eat it but actually crave it? Yes, you heard that right! With a little creativity and some tasty ingredients, you can turn this cruciferous vegetable into mouthwatering dishes that your kids will love. Here are ten broccoli recipes that will make your kids clamor for more:.

1. Cheesy Broccoli Bites

These cheesy broccoli bites are the perfect finger food for kids who love cheese. Simply mix cooked broccoli florets with breadcrumbs, grated cheddar cheese, and a beaten egg. Shape the mixture into small bites and bake until golden and crispy.

Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and watch your kids devour these tasty morsels.

2. Broccoli and Cheese Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a favorite among kids, and this recipe adds a healthy twist to the classic dish. Sauté chopped broccoli with onions and garlic until tender.

Spread a layer of grated mozzarella cheese on a tortilla, top with the cooked broccoli mixture, and fold in half. Cook the quesadilla on a griddle until the cheese melts and the tortilla turns crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with a dollop of sour cream.

3. Broccoli Pizza

If your kids are pizza lovers, this recipe will transform their favorite comfort food into a healthy meal. Spread pizza dough with tomato sauce and top with cooked broccoli florets, sliced cherry tomatoes, and grated mozzarella cheese.

Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Cut into slices, and watch your kids gobble up this nutritious pizza without a fuss.

4. Broccoli Mac and Cheese

Macs and cheese is a classic dish that kids can’t resist. Boost its nutritional value by adding steamed broccoli florets to the cheesy pasta.

Simply cook the macaroni according to package instructions, and add blanched broccoli florets to the boiling water during the last few minutes. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then mix in your favorite cheese sauce. Serve creamy, cheesy broccoli mac and cheese in individual bowls, and let your kids dive in.

5. Broccoli Nuggets

Nuggets are always a hit with kids, and these broccoli nuggets are no exception. Steam or blanch broccoli until tender, then chop it finely. In a bowl, mix the chopped broccoli with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a beaten egg.

Shape the mixture into nuggets and bake until crispy. Serve with a tangy honey-mustard dipping sauce, and watch your kids devour these little bites of goodness.

6. Broccoli Stir-Fry

A stir-fry is a quick and easy way to incorporate more vegetables into your kids’ diet. Sauté broccoli florets with colorful bell peppers, thinly sliced carrots, and snap peas in a hot wok or skillet.

Add a savory soy sauce-based sauce and cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Serve the delicious stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy a nutritious meal that will leave your kids asking for seconds.

7. Broccoli Tater Tots

If your kids love tater tots, this broccoli version will make them forget about the potato ones. Blanch or steam broccoli until tender, then chop it finely. In a bowl, mix the chopped broccoli with mashed potatoes, grated cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices your kids enjoy. Shape the mixture into bite-sized tots and bake until golden and crispy. Serve with ketchup or barbecue sauce, and watch your kids devour them in no time.

8. Broccoli and Chicken Alfredo

Alfredo pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, and this recipe adds a healthy twist to the creamy dish. Sauté diced chicken breast with garlic until cooked through, then set aside. In the same pan, cook broccoli florets until tender-crisp.

Combine cooked fettuccine pasta with the sautéed chicken, broccoli, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and creamy. Serve this delicious and nutritious broccoli and chicken Alfredo pasta, and watch your kids slurp up every last noodle.

9. Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Pesto pasta is a favorite among kids, and this recipe enhances its nutritional value with the addition of broccoli. Cook pasta according to package instructions, and steam broccoli until tender.

In a food processor, blend the cooked broccoli with basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Toss the broccoli pesto with the cooked pasta, and serve a vibrant green dish that will entice your kids to dig in.

10. Broccoli Smoothie

For those times when your kids refuse to eat their greens, a broccoli smoothie may just be the answer. Blend cooked and cooled broccoli florets with a ripe banana, a handful of spinach leaves, a cup of milk or yogurt, and a drizzle of honey.

Add ice cubes for a refreshing twist. Blend until smooth and creamy, and pour the vibrant green smoothie into glasses. Your kids won’t even taste the broccoli, and they’ll enjoy all the health benefits it offers.

Conclusion

With these ten delicious broccoli recipes, you can take the battle out of getting your kids to eat this nutritious vegetable. From cheesy bites to mouthwatering pizzas and yummy mac and cheese, these recipes will make your kids actually crave broccoli.

So, don’t give up hope just yet – there are plenty of ways to make this green veggie a favorite among the pickiest of eaters.