These Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties are a tasty way to enjoy healthy veggies! With fresh broccoli, gooey cheese, and some simple spices, they make a fun snack or side dish.
Trust me, they can turn anyone into a broccoli fan! They’re super easy to whip up. Just mix the ingredients, form patties, and cook them until golden. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key here for flavor and texture. You can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it well. I love using fresh for the vibrant crunch!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a must as it melts beautifully. You could swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, try using pecorino or nutritional yeast for a vegan option!
Eggs: Eggs bind the mixture. If you’re vegan or allergic, use flaxseed meal (1 tbsp mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) to replace each egg.
Bread Crumbs: Panko gives a great crunch, but regular bread crumbs work too. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats as a substitute.
How Do I Get My Patties to Stick Together?
Making sure the patties hold together is crucial. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Make sure the broccoli is thoroughly drained and patted dry. Excess moisture can make the patties fall apart.
- If the mixture seems too wet, add a bit more bread crumbs until it reaches a consistency that can hold its shape.
- Chilling the patties for about 15-20 minutes before frying can help them firm up even more.
With these tips, you should have perfect patties ready to fry up and enjoy!
Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 4 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped or processed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or green onion (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll be looking at about 25-30 minutes to enjoy these delicious broccoli patties!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by steaming or blanching the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes. You want them tender but still bright green. After that, drain the broccoli well and pat it dry with paper towels. This is super important to make sure your patties hold together!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, minced garlic, and chopped onion if you like. Give all the ingredients a good mix until they are evenly combined.
3. Add Eggs and Seasoning:
Beat the eggs lightly in a separate bowl and then add them to the mixture. Sprinkle in some salt and black pepper, then stir everything together until it’s well blended. If the mixture feels too wet and doesn’t hold together, mix in a bit more bread crumbs.
4. Form the Patties:
Grab a handful of the mixture and use your hands to shape it into small patties, roughly 2-3 inches in diameter. Press them gently to keep them firm.
5. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. You want it hot enough that it sizzles when you add the patties!
6. Cook the Patties:
Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through by the time you flip them.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help absorb any extra oil and keep them nice and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These tasty broccoli patties are best served warm! Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or as a side dish. You can pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and flavorful broccoli patties and watch them disappear!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Broccoli Patties
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen broccoli completely and drain any excess moisture. This helps the patties hold their shape and prevents them from getting soggy.
What If I Don’t Have Eggs?
No problem! You can substitute each egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, and then add it to your mixture as you would with the eggs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quick option.
Can I Customize the Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix different kinds of cheese based on your preference. Mozzarella, feta, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick are all great options!
