Healthy Low-Carb Broccoli Rice Croquettes
These tasty croquettes are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, low-carb snack or side dish. Packed with nutritious broccoli and a crispy golden crust, they’re perfect for satisfying your cravings without the guilt.
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
Biryani meets Chinese cuisine
Something delicious to watch next.
Step 1
Start by heating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Warm a teaspoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped pancetta. Cook it for about 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through but not too crispy. Toss in the frozen broccoli rice and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until it’s heated through and starts to release some liquid.
Step 2
Next, stir the saffron powder into the hot broth and pour it into the skillet. Keep stirring as it cooks for about 5 minutes, letting most of the liquid evaporate. Once done, transfer the broccoli rice mixture to a large bowl and let it cool completely, which should take around 15 minutes.
Step 3
When the mixture has cooled, add the shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and the egg, mixing everything until it’s well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond meal, hazelnut meal, chili powder, and pepper. Take about a third of this mixture and fold it into the rice mixture.
Step 4
Lightly coat your hands with the remaining olive oil. Using a 1-ounce cookie scoop, take a portion of the rice mixture and press an indentation into it. Pop a bocconcini inside, then cover it with another scoop of the rice mixture. Shape it into a ball and roll it in the almond meal mixture until it’s fully coated. Place each croquette on your baking sheet and repeat until you’ve used up all the mixture.
Step 5
Bake the croquettes for 15 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 10 minutes or until they’re golden and crispy all over. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Why you’ll love it
These croquettes are a great way to enjoy a comforting snack without the extra carbs. Packed with broccoli and a light binding, they offer a satisfying texture and flavor while keeping things healthy. Perfect for anyone looking to eat cleaner without sacrificing taste.
How to serve
Serve these croquettes with a side of fresh salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt-based dip. They also pair well with a tangy lemon aioli or your favorite low-carb sauce for added flavor.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or oven to keep the outside crispy. These croquettes can also be frozen; thaw overnight and reheat before serving.



