Broccoli Cheese Patties are a tasty way to enjoy your greens with a cheesy twist. These little patties combine fresh broccoli with melted cheese and a bit of seasoning, all held together in a crispy, golden crust. They’re soft inside with just the right amount of crunch outside, making them a perfect snack or side dish.
I love making these patties because they’re easy to whip up and everyone seems to enjoy them, even the kids who might usually skip their veggies. A little tip I have is to make sure you squeeze out any extra moisture from the broccoli before mixing it in—it helps the patties hold their shape better when cooking.
These patties are great served warm with some dipping sauce like ranch or a simple yogurt dip. I often pack them for lunch or bring them along to a casual get-together. They’re one of those recipes that feel comforting and a bit special all at once, plus they make eating broccoli way more fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for a nice texture. Lightly blanching keeps it bright and tender. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works too—thaw and drain very well to avoid soggy patties.
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor and meltiness. You can swap it for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharper cheese like Parmesan for a different taste.
Breadcrumbs: These help hold the patties together and give a crisp outside. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. You can also try crushed crackers or oats for a twist.
Eggs & Flour: Eggs are the binder, but if avoiding eggs, mashed potatoes or flaxseed meal mixed with water help hold the mixture. Flour can be skipped or replaced with chickpea flour for gluten-free.
How Do You Get Broccoli Cheese Patties Crispy Without Falling Apart?
The key is removing extra moisture and careful shaping.
- Drain well: After blanching, squeeze the broccoli dry in a towel to avoid sogginess.
- Proper binding: Mix eggs and breadcrumbs thoroughly to hold everything together.
- Chill the mixture: Letting it sit in the fridge for 20–30 minutes firms it up for easier shaping.
- Use enough oil: Fry in enough hot oil for a crisp crust, but not too hot to burn. Medium heat works best.
- Don’t overcrowd: Cook patties in batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
With these simple steps, you’ll get golden, crunchy patties that stay intact and have a soft, cheesy inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – to finely chop the broccoli and onion easily.
- Colander – helps drain the blanched broccoli well to avoid soggy patties.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan – cooks patties evenly and prevents sticking.
- Spatula or fish turner – for flipping patties gently to keep their shape.
- Paper towels – to drain excess oil from fried patties for crispiness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for a smoky, meaty boost that pairs well with cheese.
- Mix in shredded carrot or zucchini to sneak in more veggies and add slight sweetness and moisture.
- Try feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy, creamy flavor twist.
- Spice it up with smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes when you want a little heat or smoky depth.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Patties?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups finely chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for binding)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for mild heat and color)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
- Oil for frying (e.g., vegetable or olive oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. Allow extra time if you want to chill the patties before frying, which helps them hold their shape better.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the chopped broccoli for 2-3 minutes until it’s just tender but still bright green. Drain and immediately place in ice water to stop the cooking. Drain again and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen or paper towel.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley or chives. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
3. Bind the Mixture:
Add the eggs, salt, pepper, paprika, and flour (if using) to the bowl. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
4. Shape the Patties:
Form the mixture into small patties roughly 2-3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. For an extra crispy outside, lightly coat each patty with some extra breadcrumbs.
5. Cook the Patties:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, working in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning.
6. Drain and Serve:
Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, sour cream, or yogurt.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy broccoli cheese patties! They’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal.
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for These Patties?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing, so the patties hold together well and don’t become soggy.
How Should I Store Leftover Broccoli Cheese Patties?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain their crispiness.
Can I Bake These Patties Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! Place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. This is a healthier alternative to frying.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, panko, or oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs. Just make sure whatever you use helps absorb moisture and bind the patties together.
