These Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties are a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! Packed with fresh broccoli and gooey cheese, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of melted cheese? I love making these for a quick snack or to sneak a little green into dinner. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives great texture and flavor. If you’re out of fresh, you can use frozen broccoli, just make sure it’s well thawed and drained.
Cheese: I recommend using cheddar for a nice flavor. If you want a richer mix, try half cheddar and half mozzarella. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option, though the texture may be different.
Panko breadcrumbs: These give a lovely crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work too, but the result won’t be as crispy. If gluten-free is a must, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pop of flavor. If you don’t have it, garlic powder will work in a pinch. Just use less since it’s more concentrated.
Onion/Scallions: I find that adding chopped onion can enhance the flavor. Scallions can bring a milder twist. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip this ingredient.
How Do I Get the Patties Crispy on the Outside?
The key to crispy patties is proper frying. Here are some tips:
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the patties, or they might absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which lowers the oil temperature.
- Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping; this allows a nice golden crust to form.
- Using panko breadcrumbs on the outside can also help create that extra crunch!
Enjoy making your crispy, cheesy broccoli patties!
How to Make Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 4 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating if desired)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or scallions (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you can have a delicious batch of crispy broccoli patties ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli and cook for about 2 minutes until it turns bright green and is slightly tender. Next, drain the broccoli well and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep that lovely green color! To remove any extra moisture, squeeze the broccoli using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained broccoli, shredded cheese, eggs, Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and optional onion or scallions. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Mix everything together until it’s well combined and can easily hold its shape when formed into patties.
3. Shape the Patties
Now it’s time to shape your mixture! Form it into patties about 3 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch thick. If you want a little extra crunch, you can lightly coat each patty with additional panko breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the Patties
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the patties in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This way, they’ll cook evenly. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy outside, with a cooked-through center.
5. Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Serve these deliciously crispy patties warm as a snack, appetizer, or as part of a meal! They’re perfect on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.
Enjoy every bite of your Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. A quick way to thaw is to microwave it for a few minutes, then squeeze out the water.
How Can I Make These Patties Gluten-Free?
To make these patties gluten-free, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs. Also, double-check your cheese and any other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well!
Can I Make These Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the patties ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag once frozen, and fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Broccoli Patties?
These cheesy broccoli patties taste great with a variety of dipping sauces! Try them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick. A simple squeeze of lemon or a yogurt-based dip also complements their flavors nicely.
