These Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With fresh broccoli, cheese, and breadcrumbs, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Kids love them, and honestly, so do I! They make for a great snack or side dish. I usually whip up a batch and enjoy them with my favorite dipping sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh is best for flavor and texture, but frozen broccoli works in a pinch. Just thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid soggy patties.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you don’t have cheddar, mozzarella or even gouda can be great alternatives. Feel free to mix different cheeses too!
Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a nice crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will work just fine. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar effect.
Eggs: They help bind everything together. If you’re vegan, you can use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) or applesauce as a substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Broccoli for Patties?
Blanching broccoli is key for vibrant color and tenderness. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil water and drop in the chopped broccoli for 1-2 minutes.
- Quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking.
- Drain and squeeze out excess moisture so your patties don’t turn out soggy.
Taking these steps ensures your patties will be perfectly crispy and flavorful! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped or processed
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar and mozzarella blend)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 10-12 minutes to cook. Overall, you can have these delicious patties ready to enjoy in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 1-2 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. This helps keep the color and makes the patties soft. After that, drain the broccoli and quickly transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Once cooled, drain again and squeeze out any extra moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
2. Make the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together well until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture can hold its shape when formed into a patty.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating, shape the broccoli mixture into patties about ¾ inch thick. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and heated through inside.
4. Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them crispy!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy the broccoli patties warm, ideally with a tasty dipping sauce like ranch, sour cream, or a spicy mayo. They make wonderful appetizers, snacks, or side dishes!
Enjoy your cheesy, crispy broccoli patties! They’re not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing with the other ingredients. Frozen broccoli may not need blanching, but make sure it’s finely chopped.
How Can I Make These Patties Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply shape and cook the patties when you’re ready to eat! Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked patties; just layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind the patties together without losing flavor.
Can I Bake These Patties Instead of Frying?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Brush them lightly with oil for a crispier texture.
