Broccoli Cheese Patties are a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggie-packed bites with a cheesy twist. These patties combine tender broccoli florets with melted cheese and a crispy golden crust that makes them perfect as a snack or side dish. They’re simple but full of flavor, and the cheese really brings everything together in the best way.
I love making these patties when I want something quick and satisfying that still feels a bit special. One little tip I picked up is to squeeze out any extra moisture from the broccoli before mixing—it helps them hold together better when cooking. Plus, if you’re like me and enjoy a little crunch, frying them until they’re nice and golden is the way to go!
These patties are great on their own with a dollop of sour cream or ketchup, but I also like serving them alongside a fresh salad or tucked into a sandwich for a simple lunch. They’re one of those recipes that everyone seems to enjoy, which makes them perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whenever I make them, they disappear fast, and I always find myself planning the next batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen broccoli works fine, but fresh is best for texture. Make sure to chop it finely and squeeze out moisture to avoid soggy patties.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella both melt well. I like mixing the two for gooey and flavorful patties. You can also use a cheese blend or add Parmesan for a sharp bite.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind and crisp up the patties. For gluten-free needs, try almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Eggs: Eggs hold everything together nicely. For a vegan option, mashed chickpeas or flax eggs could work but might change the texture.
How Do You Make Broccoli Cheese Patties Hold Together and Get Crispy?
Holding patties together and getting a crispy crust can be tricky. Here’s what helps:
- Remove excess moisture: After cooking or chopping broccoli, squeeze it in a kitchen towel.
- Use enough binding: Eggs and breadcrumbs are key to keeping patties firm.
- Coat with extra breadcrumbs: This adds a crunchy crust when frying.
- Cook in enough oil: Use medium heat and enough oil to crisp both sides without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give patties space to cook evenly and avoid steaming.
These steps make the patties crispy outside and tender inside, with melty cheese in every bite. Patience and careful cooking really pay off here!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
- Food processor or knife – helps you chop broccoli finely for the best texture.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan – makes frying patties easy without sticking or burning.
- Spatula – handy for flipping patties gently without breaking them.
- Paper towels – used to drain excess oil and keep patties crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist that pairs well with cheese.
- Mix in diced sun-dried tomatoes to add a sweet, tangy pop of flavor.
- Use feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangier, creamier bite.
- Stir in finely chopped spinach or kale for extra greens and a mild earthy taste.
Broccoli Cheese Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Patties:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (finely chopped or processed)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp paprika or chili powder (optional for mild heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro (finely chopped)
- Cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil) for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so around 20 minutes total. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a fast snack or side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. This step prevents soggy patties.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onions (if using), eggs, salt, pepper, paprika, and fresh herbs. Stir well until all ingredients are mixed evenly.
3. Shape and Coat the Patties:
Form the mixture into small patties about 3 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick. Lightly coat each patty with extra breadcrumbs to create a nice crispy crust when fried.
4. Cook the Patties:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the patties one by one, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside melts.
5. Drain and Serve:
Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to soak up any extra oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like sour cream or ketchup.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy broccoli patties as a delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for These Patties?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water before mixing. This helps keep the patties from becoming soggy and falling apart.
How Can I Make These Patties Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground nuts like almonds or cashews for a crunchy texture. Just be sure to adjust quantities to get the right binding consistency.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
Reheat the patties in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat to keep them crispy, or use an air fryer for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain their crispiness.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
