Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Rounds
Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Rounds are a delicious, healthy, and keto-friendly snack or side dish that transforms ordinary broccoli into a golden, crunchy delight. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or a side to complement your main meal, these rounds are baked (or air-fried) to perfection with a crispy coating that holds together beautifully without deep frying. This recipe is naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with flavor.
What Are Crispy Broccoli Rounds?
Crispy Broccoli Rounds are bite-sized broccoli slices coated in a flavorful mixture of cheese, almond flour, and seasonings, then baked or air-fried until golden brown. They’re perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle but also appeal to anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.
Servings and Timing
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Ingredients
2 cups broccoli florets or thick broccoli stems, sliced into rounds
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli
Wash and dry the broccoli thoroughly. Slice thick stems or florets into uniform rounds, about ½-inch thick. Drying the broccoli helps the coating stick and ensures crispiness.
Prepare the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Coat the Broccoli
Dip each broccoli round into the beaten egg, then dredge in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres. Place the coated rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake or Air-Fry
Oven Method:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle or brush the broccoli rounds lightly with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place broccoli rounds in a single layer (you may need to work in batches). Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
Serve
Allow to cool slightly for 2–3 minutes to firm up the coating. Serve warm with a low-carb dipping sauce such as ranch, garlic aioli, or sugar-free ketchup.
Notes
Using thick broccoli slices ensures the rounds hold together during cooking.
Freshly grated Parmesan works best for crispiness.
If the rounds are too soft after baking, try slicing thinner or extending baking time by a few minutes.
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little smoked paprika or cayenne on top before baking.
Variations
Cheesy Broccoli Rounds
Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella with the Parmesan for extra cheesy flavor.
Spicy Broccoli Rounds
Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes to the almond flour mixture.
Herb-Infused Rounds
Add dried oregano, thyme, or parsley to the coating for a herby twist.
Panko Version (Not Keto)
Use gluten-free or regular panko breadcrumbs instead of almond flour for a crunchier texture.
Bacon-Wrapped Broccoli Rounds
Wrap each coated round with a half slice of cooked bacon before baking for a smoky, indulgent version.
Storage
Room Temperature: Best eaten fresh.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the coating may become soggy when thawed.
Reheating
Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 5–7 minutes until crisp.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Microwave: Not recommended, as it softens the coating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to remove moisture before coating.
Can I make these vegan?
Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) and a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Are these keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, thick slices of zucchini, cauliflower, or bell peppers can also work with this coating.
How do I keep them crispy?
Ensure the broccoli is dry before coating, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and reheat in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.
Final Thoughts
Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Rounds are a versatile and tasty way to enjoy vegetables while sticking to a keto or low-carb lifestyle. Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer. With customizable seasonings and optional variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Low Carb Crispy Broccoli Rounds
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets or thick stems sliced into ½-inch rounds
- ½ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for spice
Instructions
- Wash and dry broccoli thoroughly. Slice into uniform ½-inch rounds.
- In a shallow bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each broccoli round into beaten egg, then dredge in the almond flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush rounds with oil. Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Arrange in a single layer and air fry 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
- Cool 2–3 minutes and serve with a low-carb dipping sauce.
