Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making broccoli cheese patties! Seriously, these little bites of goodness are not just delicious; they’re a fantastic way to sneak some greens into your day! I love whipping them up for a quick snack or a side dish that everyone in my family devours. The combination of tender broccoli and melty cheese is just heavenly! And trust me, once you get that golden-brown crust on the outside, you’ll be hooked. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold. Let’s get those cheesy broccoli patties sizzling in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Patties
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these scrumptious broccoli cheese patties. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped: Fresh or frozen works, but I prefer fresh for that vibrant color and crunch!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar if you love a little extra zing in your bites.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together, so don’t skip this part! You can use regular or even whole grain.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a lovely cheesy depth that’s hard to resist.
- 2 eggs: They act as a binder, keeping those patties nice and cohesive.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that irresistible aroma and flavor—trust me, it makes a difference!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a touch to bring out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A little bit of spice goes a long way!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This will give your patties a nice golden finish while baking.
Once you’ve got these ingredients lined up, you’re ready to dive into making these delightful patties!
How to Prepare Broccoli Cheese Patties
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the magic of making these broccoli cheese patties! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the end result is absolutely worth it. Here’s how to get those tasty patties from your kitchen to your table!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important to get that perfect golden crust on your patties!
- Steam the broccoli: Take your chopped broccoli and steam it until it’s tender, which should take about 5 minutes. You want it soft enough to mash a bit, but still vibrant in color!
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I like to use a fork to mash the broccoli a little as I mix—this helps everything come together nicely!
- Form the patties: Now comes the fun part! Scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into small patties, about the size of your palm. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; a little rustic charm is part of the appeal!
- Prepare for baking: Place your formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Give your patties a little love by drizzling olive oil over the top. It helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Bake to perfection: Pop those patties in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t overcook!
- Cool and serve: Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This helps them set up a bit more before you dig in. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
And there you have it! These broccoli cheese patties are simple to make and so satisfying. Get ready for the cheesy, crispy goodness that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins from the broccoli, making it a guilt-free snack.
- Absolutely delicious with that melty cheese and crispy exterior that everyone craves.
- Great as a vegetarian appetizer or side dish that satisfies both kids and adults.
- Customizable! You can add your favorite herbs or spices to make them uniquely yours.
- Can be made ahead of time and frozen for a speedy meal solution later.
Tips for Success
Before you get cooking, here are some of my best tips to ensure your broccoli cheese patties turn out perfectly every single time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your patties to the next level!
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Steam it just until tender. Overcooking can make it mushy and affect the texture of your patties.
- Let the mixture rest: After mixing, let it sit for about 5 minutes before forming the patties. This helps the breadcrumbs absorb moisture and makes shaping easier!
- Use a light hand when mixing: You want everything combined but don’t overmix; it can make the patties dense. A gentle fold is all you need!
- Experiment with sizes: If you prefer bite-sized snacks, make smaller patties! Just adjust the baking time accordingly—nothing wrong with mini versions!
- Keep an eye on the oven: Ovens can vary, so check your patties a few minutes before the timer goes off. You want that golden brown color, but not burnt!
- Let them cool: Allow the patties to cool slightly before serving. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
- Serve with dipping sauces: A tasty dip can take these patties to the next level! Think ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy salsa for a fun twist.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delightful broccoli cheese patties that will impress everyone around your table!
Variations on Broccoli Cheese Patties
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up these broccoli cheese patties! Trust me, the possibilities are endless, and each variation brings a unique twist to this already delicious recipe. Here are some of my favorite ideas to inspire you:
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella gives a gooey stretch, while feta adds a nice tang. Goat cheese can also bring a lovely creaminess!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to elevate the flavor profile. Just a handful can make a world of difference!
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in other veggies like grated carrots, finely chopped spinach, or even corn for extra nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely so they mix well!
- Spice It Up: Feeling spicy? Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick! You can also add a bit of smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these patties suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. Just as tasty, I promise!
- Sweet Potato Addition: Mash in some cooked sweet potato for a hint of sweetness and a beautiful color. Plus, it adds extra nutrients!
- Asian Twist: Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil into the mixture for a fun Asian-inspired flavor. You can even top them with sesame seeds before baking!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect broccoli cheese patties. The key is to have fun in the kitchen and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve made a batch of these delightful broccoli cheese patties, you might be wondering how to keep them fresh for later. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Storing and reheating them properly will ensure they stay just as delicious as when they first came out of the oven.
To store your leftover patties, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick snacks or meals throughout the week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the patties! Just make sure they’re fully cooled, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen broccoli cheese patties, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. For reheating, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. Either way, you’ll be treated to that yummy, cheesy goodness all over again!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying these broccoli cheese patties, knowing the nutritional facts can help you feel good about your snack choices. Each patty is packed with flavor and nutrition, making them a fantastic option for any meal. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, which is one patty:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 7g
These patties are not only a tasty treat but also a great way to get in some veggies and protein. Enjoy guilt-free snacking that feels indulgent without the extra calories!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen broccoli for these patties?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the batter. This helps maintain the right texture!
How do I make these patties spicier?
If you’re looking to spice things up, add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture! You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the patties ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before popping them in the oven.
What dipping sauces pair well with broccoli cheese patties?
Oh, the options are endless! I love them with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a zesty marinara. You could also try a yogurt-based sauce with herbs for a refreshing twist!
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes, baking is actually the way to go! It keeps the patties lighter and healthier while still achieving that crispy texture. Just follow the baking instructions, and you’ll be golden!
Easy Broccoli Cheese Patties: 7 Steps to Cheesy Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Broccoli cheese patties are a delicious and nutritious snack or side dish. They combine broccoli and cheese into a tasty, bite-sized form.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Steam the chopped broccoli until tender, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties.
- Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the patties.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze the patties for later use.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese patties, vegetarian snack, healthy appetizer
