These Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties are a fun way to enjoy veggies! Packed with tender broccoli and ooey-gooey cheese, they make a tasty snack or side dish!
Plus, they are super easy to whip up! I often serve them with a yummy dip, and my kids always ask for seconds. Who knew healthy could be so cheesy and delicious? 🥦🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best, but you can use frozen. Just make sure it’s thawed and well-drained! I often use a food processor for quick chopping.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor, but you can use any cheese you love, like mozzarella or gouda. Experimenting with different cheeses makes it fun!
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko for its extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work great too. If gluten-free, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Onion: This ingredient is optional, but it adds great flavor. You could swap it for green onions for a milder taste if preferred. I love the added zing!
How Do I Properly Blanch Broccoli?
Blanching is an important step for perfect broccoli patties. It brightens the color and softens the broccoli without losing the crunch. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rapid boil.
- Add the chopped broccoli for about 2-3 minutes until it turns bright green.
- Immediately transfer it to an ice bath (bowl of ice water) to stop cooking. This keeps it tender yet firm.
Make sure to dry the broccoli well; excess moisture can prevent the patties from binding together!
Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 4 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, so in total, you’ll be looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to whip up a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanching the Broccoli:
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the finely chopped broccoli and blanch for 2-3 minutes until it turns bright green and is slightly tender. Drain the broccoli well and use paper towels to pat it dry and remove any excess moisture. This will help the patties hold together better.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped onion (if you’re using it). Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined; the mixture should be moist but hold together nicely. If it’s too wet, you can sprinkle in a little more breadcrumbs.
3. Shaping the Patties:
Now, take a handful of the mixture and shape it into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Make sure they’re packed tightly enough so they don’t fall apart while cooking.
4. Frying the Patties:
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the patties and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes until it’s just as deliciously browned.
5. Draining the Patties:
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
6. Serving:
Enjoy your Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties warm! They’re fantastic with a dipping sauce like ranch or a simple dollop of sour cream. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or side dish!
Dig in and savor the crispy outside and cheesy, broccoli-packed inside of these delicious patties! 😋
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen broccoli; just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure the patties hold together nicely.
How Do I Adjust the Consistency If the Mixture is Too Wet?
If your mixture feels too wet to form patties, simply add more breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency. The mixture should hold together well without falling apart.
Can I Make These Broccoli Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent them from drying out.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties 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 a quick snack!
