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This broccoli cheese patty recipe transforms humble ingredients into savory, nutrient-packed bites that perfectly balance wholesome vegetables with indulgent cheese. As a longtime family favorite, these versatile patties serve beautifully as appetizers, side dishes, or even meat-free main courses that even vegetable-hesitant eaters consistently devour.
I first created these patties during a particularly hectic week when I needed to use up extra broccoli before it spoiled. My cheese-loving children devoured them so enthusiastically that they've become our go-to solution whenever vegetables meet resistance at the dinner table.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: 4 cups, chopped. Fresh provides optimal texture, but frozen works in a pinch. Look for bright green florets without yellowing for best flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup. Opt for block cheese you grate yourself for superior melting properties and flavor complexity compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup. Select authentic Parmigiano Reggiano for its nutty depth and superior binding properties.
- All-purpose flour or almond meal: 1/4 cup. The flour creates structure while almond meal offers a nutty note plus gluten-free alternative.
- Large eggs: 2, beaten. Free-range eggs typically provide richer flavor and vibrant yellow color.
- Onion: 1/2 medium, finely chopped. Sweet varieties like Vidalia create gentle background flavor without overwhelming.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic dramatically outperforms pre-minced for aromatic punch.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper elevate every other ingredient.
- Olive oil: For frying. Choose extra virgin for its superior flavor profile and health benefits.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Steam or boil broccoli florets until just tender, approximately 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook or your patties will become waterlogged. Once tender, immediately transfer to a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Thoroughly drain to remove excess moisture which would make your patties soggy. Allow to cool slightly before handling.
- Chop and Combine:
- Finely chop the cooled broccoli on a cutting board until pieces are uniform and small enough to form cohesive patties. Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add both cheeses, flour, beaten eggs, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together when pressed between your fingers.
- Form the Patties:
- With slightly dampened hands to prevent sticking, scoop approximately 1/4 cup of mixture and gently form into a patty about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Place formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour. If too dry, add a small splash of milk or another beaten egg.
- Cook to Perfection:
- For pan-frying, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place patties in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding which would steam rather than crisp them. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown with a crunchy exterior. For baking, arrange patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow cooked patties to rest on paper towels for 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps excess oil drain away and allows the internal structure to set, resulting in patties that hold together beautifully when served.
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The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan creates the perfect flavor foundation in these patties. My grandmother always insisted that good cheese makes all the difference, and after years of making this recipe, I completely agree. When I serve these at family gatherings, everyone always asks for the recipe, especially surprised to find themselves craving broccoli!
Customization Ideas
These broccoli cheese patties welcome endless variations based on your preferences and what you have on hand. For Mediterranean flair, substitute feta for cheddar and add chopped olives and dried oregano. Swap Parmesan for pecorino and add sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian twist. For Asian-inspired flavors, include a teaspoon of grated ginger, replace some broccoli with shredded carrots, and serve with soy dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Transform these versatile patties into countless meal options. Top with a poached egg for a satisfying breakfast. Serve alongside soup for a complete lunch. Use as vegetarian burger alternatives topped with sliced avocado and sprouts. Create appetizer-sized mini patties for party platters served with aioli or marinara dipping sauce. They also make excellent school lunch box additions that remain delicious even at room temperature.
Troubleshooting Tips
Patties falling apart? Ensure your broccoli is thoroughly drained and finely chopped. Adding an extra egg or tablespoon of flour can help bind stubborn mixtures. If patties seem too wet, refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes before forming. When pan-frying, resist the urge to flip too early. Let a proper crust form before turning, usually 3-4 minutes per side. If baking, slightly increase cook time for extra firmness.
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Serve these broccoli cheese patties warm and enjoy the delightful balance of cheesy richness and nutritious broccoli in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these broccoli cheese patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator with parchment paper between layers. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months - just thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with broccoli cheese patties?
These patties pair wonderfully with a variety of sauces including ranch dressing, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a simple yogurt-dill sauce. For a healthier option, try tzatziki or a light lemon-herb yogurt dip.
- → How can I make these patties gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with almond meal, gluten-free flour blend, or ground oats. Make sure any breadcrumbs used are also gluten-free. Double-check that your cheese doesn't contain any gluten additives (most natural cheeses are gluten-free).
- → Can I use frozen broccoli for these patties?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works perfectly. Thaw it completely, cook according to package directions, then be sure to drain it very well and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before chopping and mixing with other ingredients.
- → What can I serve with broccoli cheese patties for a complete meal?
These versatile patties make an excellent side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty soup. For a vegetarian meal, serve them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or atop cooked quinoa or rice. They also work wonderfully in wraps or on burger buns with traditional toppings.
- → How do I know when the patties are cooked properly?
The patties should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. When frying, this takes about 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat. When baking, they'll need about 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C), flipping halfway through. The interior should be hot throughout and hold together well when cut.