Broccoli Cheese Patties are a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic broccoli-cheese combination, transforming it into a fun and flavorful handheld treat. These golden, crispy patties are packed with vibrant green broccoli, melty cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs, making them a perfect snack, side dish, or even a vegetarian main course. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with savory flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re easy to make, making them a perfect addition to any meal!
Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Cheese Patties
- Nutritious & Flavorful: These patties offer the perfect balance of healthy vegetables and comforting cheese, making them both nutritious and satisfying.
- Crispy & Golden: Pan-frying the patties gives them a golden, crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, cheesy interior, making each bite irresistible.
- Quick & Easy: With only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these patties are quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend treat.
- Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or switch up the cheese to suit your tastes. You can even dip them in your favorite sauce for extra flavor!
- Great for Meal Prep: These patties are great for meal prepping and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them perfect for lunchboxes or as a quick snack.
What You’ll Need for Broccoli Cheese Patties
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces (about 1 small head of broccoli)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Start by steaming the broccoli florets until they’re tender but still bright green. You can do this by placing them in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water, covering them, and microwaving for about 2-3 minutes, or steaming them on the stovetop for 4-5 minutes. Once the broccoli is cooked, drain any excess water and let it cool slightly. Then, chop it into small pieces to make it easier to shape into patties.
Step 2: Make the Patty Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding any fresh herbs or optional ingredients (like red pepper flakes for some heat), stir them in as well. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together but be soft enough to form into patties.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Use your hands to form the broccoli mixture into small patties (about 2-3 inches wide). Depending on your preference, you can make them smaller for bite-sized snacks or larger for a more filling dish. Be sure to press them gently to compact them, so they hold together while frying.
Step 4: Fry the Patties
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the pan, being sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them gently using a spatula to avoid breaking them. Once they’re golden and crispy on both sides, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Once the patties have cooled slightly, they’re ready to be served! You can enjoy them as is or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, sour cream, or marinara sauce.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Patties
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli. It should be tender but still hold its shape when chopped.
- Use the Right Cheese: Choose a cheese that melts well, like cheddar or mozzarella. Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations for extra flavor.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or oregano. A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can also add a little heat.
- Chill the Patties: If the mixture feels too loose to form into patties, you can chill the mixture in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. This will help it firm up and make it easier to form the patties.
- Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They may not be as crispy as fried ones, but they’ll still taste delicious!
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Patties
- As a Snack or Appetizer: These patties make a great snack or appetizer, perfect for parties, game nights, or as an after-school treat for kids.
- With Dipping Sauce: Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, sour cream, marinara, or yogurt-based dip.
- As a Side Dish: Serve the patties alongside your favorite main dishes like grilled chicken, steak, or pasta. They pair beautifully with a variety of entrees.
- In a Sandwich or Wrap: Add a few patties to a wrap or sandwich, along with some greens and your favorite condiments, for a delicious vegetarian meal.
- With a Salad: Make a light and healthy meal by serving the patties with a fresh side salad or steamed veggies.
Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the size of the patties)
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per patty, based on 6 patties)
- Calories: 150-200 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 250-300mg
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Patties are a flavorful and fun way to enjoy your veggies while indulging in the delicious combo of broccoli and cheese. These crispy, golden patties are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish for any meal. Plus, they’re easy to make and fully customizable, so you can experiment with different cheeses, spices, and toppings to suit your taste. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a party, these patties are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!