Broccoli Cheese Patties are a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a crispy, cheesy treat. They’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or even as a vegetarian main course. The combination of broccoli, cheese, and a crunchy exterior makes these patties irresistible!
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Broccoli Cheese Patties:
Broccoli Cheese Patties Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (you can also use mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for a bit of smokiness)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (to bind the patties)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
- If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still bright green. Drain well and chop into small pieces. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain the excess water.
- Make sure the broccoli is finely chopped to ensure the patties hold together well.
2. Make the Patty Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, onion (if using), garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until it forms a sticky mixture.
- Add the flour to help bind the ingredients together. If the mixture seems too loose, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs until it holds together when formed into patties.
3. Form the Patties:
- With your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a patty. Repeat with the rest of the mixture to form patties, making sure they are about 1/2-inch thick.
- You should get around 8-10 patties, depending on the size.
4. Cook the Patties:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
- Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to flip them carefully to avoid breaking.
- Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Serve:
- Serve the Broccoli Cheese Patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, garlic aioli, or even a tangy ketchup.
- They go wonderfully as a side dish with a main meal or as a snack on their own.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheese Patties:
- Make them crispy: For an extra crispy exterior, you can coat the patties in panko breadcrumbs before frying.
- Baking option: If you want to make these in the oven, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Make-ahead: These patties can be prepped ahead of time. You can store the uncooked patties in the fridge for up to 1-2 days or freeze them for longer storage.
- Customizations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn, carrots, or even zucchini to add variety and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions:
- On a Plate: Serve these patties with a side of roasted potatoes, a light salad, or even some crispy sweet potato fries for a full meal.
- In a Sandwich: Add a patty or two in between whole-grain bread or a whole-wheat pita, and top with some fresh greens and a drizzle of tahini or your favorite dressing for a satisfying veggie sandwich.
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve them alongside sour cream, guacamole, or spicy ranch sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
These Broccoli Cheese Patties are crispy, cheesy, and packed with nutrients. They’re the perfect way to enjoy broccoli in a fun, flavorful way!