These Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties are a fun way to enjoy your veggies! Packed with broccoli and melted cheese, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside—yum!
Making these patties is super simple! I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream. Trust me, you’ll want to snack on these all week! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best, but you can use frozen florets if that’s what you have! Just thaw and drain them well to get rid of excess moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its great flavor! If you’re looking for something different, try mozzarella for a milder taste or even pepper jack for some kick.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re unable to find it, use pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs work well. If gluten-free is what you need, consider almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Eggs: They help bind everything together. You can swap with flax eggs (2.5 tablespoons water + 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal) for a vegan option.
How Do I Get My Patties to Hold Together?
Getting the right consistency is crucial for these patties to stay together during cooking. After mixing your ingredients, if the mixture feels too wet and won’t hold shape, add a bit more breadcrumb or flour. Remember, it should be moldable but not sticky! It’s all about balance.
- After blanching, make sure to squeeze out ALL the moisture from the broccoli.
- Form the patties gently but firmly – don’t pack them too tightly.
- If you find they are still breaking apart, chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them firm up!
Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 3 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets (about 2 medium heads)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra if needed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for binding)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal or snack that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the finely chopped broccoli and blanch it for 2-3 minutes until it’s tender but still bright green. Drain it and quickly plunge it into ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain again and squeeze out any excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and chopped onion (if you like). Season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything well.
3. Add the Eggs and Form the Mixture:
Crack the eggs into the broccoli mixture and mix well until everything is combined. If the mixture feels too loose, add flour to bind it, or sprinkle in additional breadcrumbs until you achieve a moldable consistency.
4. Shape the Patties:
With your hands, form the mixture into small patties about 2-3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly.
5. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and drain them on paper towels to get rid of any excess oil. This keeps them crispy!
7. Enjoy:
Serve the warm patties with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy broccoli patties!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess moisture before chopping it finely. This will help avoid a soggy patty.
How Do I Store Leftover Patties?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown.
What Can I Serve with Broccoli Patties?
These patties go great with a variety of dips, such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli. They can also be served as a side with salads or as part of a veggie platter!
