Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe

Are you searching for a delicious and nutritious dish to add to your meal rotation? Look no further than these mouthwatering Broccoli Cheese Patties! Packed with wholesome broccoli and gooey cheese, these patties are the perfect side dish or snack. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or simply love broccoli and cheese, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, they are easy to make, requiring simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Broccoli Cheese Patties are:

Healthy: Packed with nutrient-dense broccoli and calcium-rich cheese, these patties are both delicious and nutritious.
Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy these crispy, cheesy patties.
Versatile: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal. You can also freeze them for later use.
Quick and easy: You can whip up these patties in no time with minimal preparation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these irresistible Broccoli Cheese Patties, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups of fresh broccoli florets (steamed or boiled until tender)
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (you can also use mozzarella or a mix of cheeses)
2 large eggs
½ cup of bread crumbs (panko or regular breadcrumbs work well)
¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon of black pepper
Salt to taste
½ teaspoon of paprika (optional, for a hint of spice)
2 tablespoons of olive oil (for frying)

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by cooking your broccoli florets. You can steam or boil them until they are tender but still bright green, about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and allow the broccoli to cool slightly. Use a knife to chop the broccoli finely, or pulse it a few times in a food processor if you prefer smaller pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, eggs, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix everything together thoroughly until you have a well-combined mixture. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when forming patties.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties about the size of your palm. You should be able to make around 8-10 patties depending on the size. If the mixture feels too loose, you can add more breadcrumbs to help bind it.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

Your crispy and cheesy Broccoli Cheese Patties are now ready to be served! Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, or even a spicy aioli. These patties are perfect as a snack, side dish, or a light vegetarian meal.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Patties

Use fresh broccoli: For the best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to use fresh broccoli. However, if you’re short on time, frozen broccoli can work too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe.
Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture of your patties. For the best melting and flavor, shred your cheese from a block.
Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help to bind the patties and give them a crispy exterior. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal as a substitute.
Experiment with add-ins: You can customize these patties by adding extra ingredients like chopped bell peppers, grated zucchini, or even crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to switch up the flavor profile of these Broccoli Cheese Patties, here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy Broccoli Cheese Patties: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a bit of heat.
Cheese Lovers’ Patties: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a cheesy explosion in every bite.
Gluten-Free Patties: Swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Serving Suggestions

These Broccoli Cheese Patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

As a snack: Serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch, ketchup, or sriracha mayo for a tasty snack.
As a side dish: Pair them with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty salad for a balanced meal.
In a sandwich: Use them as a filling in a sandwich or wrap, along with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite condiments.
For meal prep: Make a big batch and freeze them for a quick and easy meal on busy days. Simply reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.

Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli

Broccoli is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, making it a great choice for a healthy diet. The addition of cheese in this recipe provides a good source of calcium and protein, making these patties a nutritious option for both kids and adults.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy way to enjoy broccoli, these Broccoli Cheese Patties are the perfect solution. Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, they are versatile enough to be served as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be hooked!