If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy vegetables, these Broccoli Cheese Patties are the perfect recipe to try. Packed with nutrients, flavor, and the comforting goodness of cheese, these patties make for a great snack, side dish, or even a main meal when paired with a salad or dip. The best part is that they are super easy to make, and you can customize the cheese and seasoning to suit your taste.
Whether you’re trying to get more greens into your diet or simply love the combination of broccoli and cheese, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table. Perfect for picky eaters or meal prep, these patties are versatile, delicious, and fun to make.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Cheese Patties
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from broccoli, these patties are a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet.
- Quick and Easy to Make: You can whip up these patties in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect addition to any meal.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, crispy goodness of these patties.
- Customizable: You can experiment with different cheeses and spices to create your perfect version.
- Great for Meal Prep: These patties store well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated for a quick meal or snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Broccoli Cheese Patties, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat for a healthier option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or herbs like parsley for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Broccoli Cheese Patties
Step 1: Cook the Broccoli
Start by steaming or boiling the broccoli until it is tender. This will typically take around 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, drain the broccoli thoroughly to remove any excess moisture. Then, chop the broccoli into small pieces using a knife or a food processor. You want small, bite-sized pieces that will hold together well in the patties.
Step 2: Prepare the Patty Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated mozzarella cheese, grated cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix everything together until well combined.
Add the chopped broccoli to the mixture and stir until the broccoli is evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick and sticky, making it easy to form into patties.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, then flatten them into patties. Aim for a size similar to a burger patty, about 2–3 inches in diameter. If the mixture feels too sticky, you can coat your hands with a little flour or breadcrumbs to make shaping easier.
Step 4: Fry the Patties
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the skillet, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to fry the patties in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
Fry the patties for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Broccoli Cheese Patties hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad. These patties also go well with a dollop of sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup. You can enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with any main course.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Patties
- Use Fresh Broccoli: While frozen broccoli works in a pinch, fresh broccoli will give the patties a better texture and flavor.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to use different types of cheese to customize the flavor. Try adding pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky taste.
- Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the patties instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Make Them Ahead: These patties are great for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and reheat them in the oven or on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
Variations of Broccoli Cheese Patties
- Vegetarian Version: You can add other vegetables to the patties to make them even more nutritious. Consider adding shredded carrots, zucchini, or even corn for a different texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese substitutes and ensure the breadcrumbs you use are dairy-free to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
- Add a Protein Boost: For an added protein boost, you can mix in some cooked quinoa or lentils to the patty mixture.
Why Broccoli Cheese Patties are Perfect for You
Broccoli Cheese Patties offer a nutritious and satisfying way to get more vegetables into your diet while indulging in the rich, savory flavors of cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a healthy addition to your meals, these patties are the perfect solution. They’re simple to make, adaptable to various dietary needs, and loved by people of all ages.
Additionally, they’re a great option for kids who might be hesitant to eat vegetables, making it an excellent choice for parents who want to ensure their children are getting the nutrients they need in a fun and delicious way. By incorporating cheese, these patties also become a comforting and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Broccoli Cheese Patties are a perfect addition to your recipe collection. With their cheesy, crispy exterior and tender, veggie-packed interior, these patties are sure to please everyone in your household. Easy to make, customizable, and full of healthy ingredients, these patties are perfect for any occasion. Try them today and enjoy the goodness of broccoli in every bite!