These Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With broccoli and gooey cheese mixed together, they make a perfect snack or side dish.
Trust me, they are so good that even picky eaters might come back for more! I love to serve them warm with a dip—it’s like a party on a plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds the crunch and flavor you want. If you have frozen broccoli, that’s totally fine! Just make sure to drain it well after cooking to avoid watery patties.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can substitute it with mozzarella or gouda if you prefer a milder cheese. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cheese options!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but for a healthier option, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs without a problem!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth of flavor, but you can swap it with nutritional yeast for a vegan twist, which brings a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Shaped Patties?
Shaping the patties can sometimes be tricky, but here are my tips to help you out:
- Make sure your mixture is well-combined; it should hold together when pressed.
- Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking when shaping the patties.
- Use a cookie scoop or an ice cream scoop for even sizes, making it easier to form them.
- Lightly coat your patties with breadcrumbs to enhance the crispiness and prevent them from breaking apart in the pan.
With these tips, your broccoli cheese patties will be a hit! Enjoy making them!
Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped finely)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 20 minutes of preparation time and another 10-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have these delicious patties ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
First, if you’re using frozen broccoli, steam or microwave it until tender, then drain well to get rid of excess moisture. If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until just tender and then chop it finely to fit into your mixture.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, throw in your chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, eggs, and season it with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and holds its shape when you press it together.
3. Shape the Patties:
Now it’s time to form patties! Scoop the mixture into your hands and shape them into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Once shaped, lightly coat each side with breadcrumbs for that extra crunch when frying.
4. Cook the Patties:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan!). Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to watch them closely to prevent burning!
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil. Serve warm, and feel free to add a dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch, or ketchup for a delightful finish!
Enjoy your delicious Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties! They make a perfect snack or side dish for any meal. 😊
FAQ for Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to steam or microwave the frozen broccoli until tender, then drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the patties. This ensures they hold their shape while cooking.
How Can I Make These Patties Gluten-Free?
To make your broccoli cheese patties gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Everything else in the recipe can remain the same!
Can I Prepare These Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can! Shape the patties beforehand and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them; just lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
What Should I Serve These Patties With?
These patties are delicious on their own but pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or ketchup. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish to main meals like grilled chicken or fish!