Broccoli Cheese Patties

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield

Makes 10 patties

Serves: 4–5 people

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup finely diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Optional Add-ins

• Red pepper flakes
• Chopped chives
• Mozzarella cheese
• Cooked bacon bits
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh dill

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender but still bright green.

Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Pat completely dry with paper towels.

Finely chop the broccoli into small pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl combine:

• Chopped broccoli
• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs
• Onion
• Garlic
• Parsley
• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Flour

Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly combined.

Allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes so the breadcrumbs absorb moisture.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Using approximately ¼ cup of mixture, form into patties about ½ inch thick.

Press firmly so they hold together during cooking.

Place the patties on a tray while heating the skillet.

Step 4: Cook

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat (approximately 350°F/175°C).

Cook each patty for 4–5 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown and crispy.

Avoid flipping too early to prevent breaking.

Transfer cooked patties onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately while hot with:

• Ranch dressing
• Sour cream
• Greek yogurt dip
• Garlic aioli
• Marinara sauce
• Spicy mayo

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Alternative Baking Method

For a healthier version:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Lightly spray with cooking oil.

Bake for:

• 15 minutes
• Flip
• Bake another 10 minutes

Broil for the final 2 minutes for extra crispiness.

Air Fryer Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly spray both sides of the patties.

Cook for:

• 10–12 minutes

Flip halfway through cooking.

Cook until golden and crispy.

Tips for Success

• Dry the broccoli well to avoid soggy patties.
• Chop broccoli into very small pieces for easier shaping.
• Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Chill the mixture for 15 minutes if it’s too soft.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
• Use medium heat for even browning.
• Add extra breadcrumbs if the mixture feels wet.
• Let patties rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Version

Mix in:

• Jalapeños
• Cayenne pepper
• Pepper Jack cheese

Italian Style

Add:

• Mozzarella
• Basil
• Italian seasoning

Serve with marinara.

Low-Carb Version

Replace breadcrumbs with:

• Almond flour
• Crushed pork rinds

Extra Veggies

Include:

• Grated carrots
• Cauliflower
• Zucchini (well-drained)
• Spinach

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli Cheese Patties pair wonderfully with:

• Garden salad
• Tomato soup
• Roasted vegetables
• Mashed potatoes
• Rice pilaf
• Grilled chicken
• Baked salmon
• Pasta
• Coleslaw

They also make delicious vegetarian burgers served inside toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

Arrange cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Freeze until solid.

Transfer to freezer-safe bags.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Oven

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Air Fryer

Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes.

Skillet

Reheat over medium heat until warmed through.

Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispy exterior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes. Thaw completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before chopping and mixing.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I prepare them ahead?

Yes. Shape the patties up to one day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Why are my patties falling apart?

Usually because the broccoli contains too much moisture or there aren’t enough binding ingredients. Be sure to dry the broccoli thoroughly and add extra breadcrumbs if needed.

Nutrition Information (Per Patty)

• Calories: 145
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 52mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Calcium: 180mg
• Iron: 1mg
• Vitamin C: 38mg
• Vitamin A: 410 IU
• Potassium: 220mg