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Broccoli cheese patties have become a weeknight hero and party hit since they turn fridge basics into something totally crave-worthy. That crispy outside mixed with gooey melted cheese inside feels like pure cozy food that sneaks veggies in every bite but still tastes like a treat.
Whenever I make these, my family races for the last one—even those who usually side-eye broccoli end up wanting more. This meal has totally saved me on nights when all we want is tasty comfort but need it fast.
Tasty Ingredients
- Spices and herbs: Toss in parsley, basil, a pinch of cumin, or smoked paprika for extra punch. Fresh herbs wake everything up at the end
- Breadcrumbs: Optional, but if you like serious crunch, throw in some. Panko is great if you want it super light
- Olive oil: You'll be pan-frying, so pick something good for a crispy golden outside
- Salt and pepper: Just enough to make all the flavors pop. Give it a taste and adjust as you mix
- Garlic: Go for plump, fresh cloves and mince for a strong flavor kick
- Onion: Chop super fine for sweetness and bite. Pick ones that feel dense and are blemish-free
- Large eggs: Beat 'em to help the mix hold. Use fresh, with thick whites and bold yolks
- All-purpose flour or almond meal: Either works—flour gives more structure, almond meal's lighter and brings some nuttiness. Fine almond meal makes things easier
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, bold flavor and helps everything stick. Get the best, firm Parm you can find
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp is best for strong taste and oozy cheese pulls, but any melty cheese works. Grate it yourself for max flavor
- Broccoli florets: Cook until just soft, then chop up small. Use fresh or frozen—whatever's on hand. You want bright green, tight heads
Simple How-To Guide
- Serve It Up:
- Serve nice and hot right after they're done. Add your favorite dip or plate them up with a main dish
- Cook the Patties:
- Add a swirl of oil to a frying pan and set to medium. Drop in your patties, leaving space for flipping. Fry each side three or four minutes till they get a dark, crisp edge. Want to bake? Bake at 375, patties on parchment, about 15-20 minutes. Flip halfway to get both sides crunchy
- Shape 'Em:
- Take a few spoonfuls of mix and make small patties, about three inches across and half an inch thick. Squeeze just enough so they stay together, but not too tight
- Chop and Mix:
- Chop that cooled broccoli fine—by hand or a quick food processor blitz, just don’t make mush. Dump into a big bowl with cheeses, flour, eggs, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until it starts to stick together
- Prep Your Broccoli:
- Boil or steam broccoli florets till tender, about five to seven minutes. Drain super well and let cool—extra water makes soggy patties
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Sharp cheddar is always my MVP here because it tastes bold and melts into stretchy bits that pair perfectly with broccoli. When I brought a plate to a family get-together, everyone wanted the secret and there wasn’t even a crumb left.
Chill Storage Tricks
Let the patties cool off all the way before stashing them in the fridge. If you need to stack, just layer with wax paper. They'll last up to four days easy
To freeze, lay out cooled patties on a sheet and freeze them fast, then shove them in a zip bag. Heat from frozen, in the oven or on the stove, 'til they're piping hot
Swap Ideas
Try subbing in mozzarella, gouda, or fontina if you want to switch up cheese. Use almond meal for a gluten-free version. Out of fresh broccoli? Frozen’s fine—just get it dry first. Grated carrot or zucchini works for an extra veggie boost
Tasty Ways to Serve
These are awesome as a snack with a cool yogurt-cucumber dip or some zesty marinara. For dinner, have as the main with a fresh salad or stuff into pita with veggies for a quick bite. They’re even good at breakfast next to eggs or a side for grilled meat
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Backstory
Dishes like these show up in all kinds of family kitchens because folks always want balance between health and taste. Broccoli cheese patties nail that cozy-meets-wholesome vibe, so they pop up everywhere from quick weeknight meals to big group dinners
Common Questions
- → How can I stop broccoli patties from breaking apart?
Make sure your broccoli's as dry as you can get it. Don't go overboard with cheese or flour. Press those patties together before you cook, and you should be good.
- → Is it alright to bake these instead of frying?
Yep! Pop them on a tray with parchment paper at 375°F, flip halfway through, and you'll get a crispy finish without tons of oil.
- → What kind of cheese should I use for these?
Sharp cheddar brings a good punch, but mozzarella, gouda, or even feta will give you their own flavors too.
- → How can I make them gluten free?
Just swap out all-purpose flour for almond meal or your favorite gluten-free blend, and you're set.
- → How do I boost the flavor?
Try tossing in basil, parsley, or your favorite herbs. Spices like black pepper, paprika, or cumin are great for an extra kick too.
- → What's the best way to serve these?
Dish them up warm with ranch dip, a spoonful of sour cream, marinara, or next to whatever main dish you're loving tonight.