These Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! They mix fresh broccoli with gooey cheese and crispy breadcrumbs for a delicious treat that’s perfect for any meal.
Making these is so much fun! I love adding extra cheese just to sneak a little more goodness in. Plus, they make great leftovers for lunch the next day—if there are any left, that is! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor and texture. If you’re short on fresh, frozen broccoli works well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it completely before using.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can substitute it with any favorite cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are perfect, but if you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers. I’ve seen people use panko for extra crunch, which is a great choice!
Onion and Garlic: Yellow onion and garlic add nice flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use onion powder and garlic powder. Just use less to avoid overpowering the patties.
How Do I Ensure the Patties Hold Together?
Getting the right texture in your patties is essential. Here are some tips to keep them from falling apart:
- Proper Blanching: Blanch the broccoli just enough to soften it but keep it firm. If it’s too mushy, your patties won’t hold shape.
- Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients. Make sure to mix them well with the other ingredients for an even distribution.
- Breadcrumbs: Adding breadcrumbs helps absorb moisture and gives structure. Don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Coating: Coating the patties lightly with breadcrumbs before frying gives a nice crisp surface and added stability.
Following these tips will help you create perfectly crispy and delicious broccoli cheese patties every time!
Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, for a total time of around 30 minutes. You’ll enjoy a delicious, cheesy treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the chopped broccoli and blanch for 2-3 minutes. This helps soften the broccoli while keeping it bright green. After blanching, drain the broccoli and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess water.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and eggs. This is your flavorful mixture! Season it with a little salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it holds together nicely.
3. Shape the Patties:
Next, take a handful of the mixture and form it into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. To make them extra crispy, lightly coat each patty with a bit more breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the Patties:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, place the patties in the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy, then flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm as a snack, side dish, or as part of a light meal. Enjoy your delicious Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess water before chopping and mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help ensure your patties don’t become too watery.
How Can I Make These Paties Vegan?
To make vegan broccoli cheese patties, you can replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tbsp water), and use a dairy-free cheese substitute in place of cheddar and Parmesan. The patties may be slightly different in texture, but they’ll still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Patties?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the patties on a lined baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
