If you’re looking for a flavorful way to enjoy your greens, this Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe is an absolute winner. Crispy on the outside and packed with cheesy goodness on the inside, these patties are a delightful blend of tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and nutty Parmesan. They’re a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a side that adds a punch of comfort and nutrition to your meal. Trust me, once you try these patties, they’ll become a quick favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are incredibly simple but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor balance in your Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe. From the vibrant green broccoli to the melty cheeses, every component contributes something special.
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped: Fresh or frozen, broccoli provides the hearty vegetable base and beautiful green color.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, creamy, and melty cheesy flavor that makes each bite irresistible.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a sharp and nutty undertone, enhancing overall taste complexity.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or almond meal: Helps to bind the patties together without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a natural binder, keeping the mixture firm and helping the patties hold shape.
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a hint of warmth and pungency, perfectly complementing the cheese and broccoli.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance the flavors.
- Olive oil for frying: For achieving that golden, crispy crust which is simply irresistible.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by steaming or boiling the broccoli florets until they are tender but not mushy. This softens them enough to bind well while keeping a bit of texture. After cooking, drain any excess water and chop the broccoli finely — small pieces help the patties hold together beautifully.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, flour or almond meal, beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined and starts to stick when pressed. This mixture is the heart of your Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe, combining fresh veggies with cheesy, savory flavors.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out small portions of the mixture and gently shape them into round, flat patties. Aim for a size that’s perfect for a single serving bite, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. If the mixture is too wet, add a tiny bit more flour to help the patties hold their shape during cooking.
Step 4: Pan-Fry Until Golden
Heat a generous layer of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place a few patties in the pan without crowding them. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step locks in the crunchy texture that contrasts so well with the creamy inside.
Step 5: Bake to Finish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the fried patties onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake them for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become completely heated through. Baking also helps melt the cheeses inside the patties even more for that perfect gooey bite.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or chives add a lovely pop of color and freshness to these patties. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy yogurt sauce complements the richness, balancing the flavors while adding another layer of creaminess.
Side Dishes
These patties pair wonderfully with fresh salads, like a crisp garden salad or a zesty coleslaw. You could also serve them alongside roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal that hits all the right notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack the patties with layers of avocado and tomato, drizzling some spicy aioli or your favorite dipping sauce between each layer. They also make fantastic sliders—just pop one into a mini bun with lettuce and pickles for a bite-sized treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any patties left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their texture and flavor, so you can enjoy them fresh whenever you want a quick snack or meal addition.
Freezing
Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe also freezes beautifully! Lay the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Frozen patties will keep well for up to 2 months without losing their delicious taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place frozen or refrigerated patties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method revives their crispiness far better than microwaving and keeps the cheese melty inside.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well so you avoid excess moisture that might make the patties too soft.
Is it possible to make these patties gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for almond meal or another gluten-free flour alternative while keeping the same ratio for binding.
Can I bake the patties without frying them first?
Yes, but frying gives the patties a much-needed crunchy exterior. Baking alone will yield softer patties, which some people prefer for a lighter texture.
What kind of cheese works best in this Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe?
Sharp cheddar and Parmesan are ideal for their strong flavors and melting qualities, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or a mild cheese if you want a different flavor profile.
How can I make these patties vegan?
You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer and use vegan cheese options, but the texture might be slightly different from the original recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe is a fantastic way to turn simple ingredients into a comforting, flavor-packed dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, a side, or a main dish, these patties are sure to brighten up your meal and satisfy cravings. Give them a try—you might just find a new favorite that’s not only tasty but also nourishing and easy to prepare!
Print
Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 patties
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Broccoli Cheese Patties are a delightful vegetarian snack or appetizer, combining tender steamed broccoli with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, bound together with eggs and a touch of flour. Crisply baked until golden, they make a flavorful and healthy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Binding and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or almond meal
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking
- Olive oil for frying (optional, but recommended for browning)
Instructions
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or boil broccoli florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and chop finely to help the patties bind more easily.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, flour (or almond meal), beaten eggs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly mixed.
- Form Patties: Scoop small portions of the mixture and shape them into patties, about 8-10 in number depending on preferred size.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake Patties: Place patties on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. Optionally, lightly brush or spray patties with olive oil before baking for a crispier texture.
Notes
- Steaming broccoli retains more nutrients and color compared to boiling.
- If you prefer, you can pan-fry the patties in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond meal or gluten-free flour.
- These patties can be served warm or at room temperature as a snack or side dish.
- Add herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor if desired.
