If you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and packed with veggies, broccoli cheese patties are about to be your new favorite recipe. These cheesy veggie cakes are golden on the outside, soft in the center, and made with wholesome ingredients you probably already have. Whether you serve them as a side, snack, or meatless main dish, they deliver big on flavor and nutrition. Plus, they’re easy to customize for low-carb, gluten-free, or high-protein diets. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from ingredients and step-by-step prep to storage tips and variations—so let’s dive into the delicious world of broccoli and cheese!
Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Patties
Making broccoli cheese patties doesn’t require anything fancy—just simple, real food ingredients that come together for a cheesy, veggie-packed bite. Here’s everything you’ll need:
🥦 Main Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)
Steam lightly and chop fine. Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants—perfect for a superfood snack. - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar adds a bold, creamy flavor. You can mix in mozzarella or parmesan if you’d like. - 2 large eggs
Acts as a binder to hold your patties together and adds a nice protein boost. - ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
Gives the patties structure and that satisfying crisp. Use gluten-free if needed.
🧂 Seasonings & Extras
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Adds brightness and a pop of color. - 1–2 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional)
For extra cheesy depth and richness. - 1–2 teaspoons olive oil or oil spray (for cooking)
Use for pan-frying or spraying before baking or air-frying.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Patties Step by Step
These broccoli cheese patties come together in a flash—and with minimal mess. Whether you’re baking, air frying, or pan-frying, this easy method gets you golden, crispy patties packed with flavor and nutrients. Let’s walk through it!
🥦 Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
- Steam or microwave your broccoli until just tender (about 3–4 minutes).
- Drain well and chop finely. You want small, bite-sized pieces so the patties hold together better.
🍳 Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
- Chopped broccoli
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Eggs
- Breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper
- Optional: Parmesan and parsley
Mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not wet.
🥄 Step 3: Shape the Patties
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form into a small patty.
- Place shaped patties on a plate or parchment-lined tray.
- Repeat until all the mixture is used. You’ll get about 10–12 patties.
🔥 Step 4: Cook the Patties
You’ve got options here:
Option A: Pan-Fry
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
Option B: Bake
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly sprayed with oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Option C: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place patties in a single layer, spray lightly with oil.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once, until crisp and golden.
✅ Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the patties cool for a few minutes to firm up.
- Serve with dipping sauces like Greek yogurt, ranch, or a spicy mayo.
Tools You’ll Need to Make Broccoli Cheese Patties
One of the best things about broccoli cheese patties? You don’t need fancy equipment. Just a few basic kitchen tools and you’ll be on your way to crispy, cheesy perfection. Here’s what to have on hand:
🔪 Basic Prep Tools
- Cutting board & sharp knife
To finely chop your broccoli (especially if using fresh), you’ll need a good-quality knife and a stable surface. - Mixing bowl (large)
For combining your broccoli, cheese, and other ingredients. - Measuring cups & spoons
Helps get the right ratio of cheese, crumbs, and seasonings.
🧂 Cooking Tools
- Nonstick skillet or frying pan (if pan-frying)
Ideal for getting that golden-brown crust without sticking. - Baking sheet + parchment paper (if baking)
A mess-free way to bake multiple patties at once. - Air fryer (optional)
For a healthier, crispier version with less oil. - Spatula or turner
To flip patties gently without breaking them.
🥣 Extra Handy Tools (Optional)
- Food processor
Speeds up chopping broccoli and mixing everything evenly. - Scoop or ice cream spoon
Ensures uniform patty size for even cooking. - Wire rack
Use after baking or frying so the patties stay crisp on all sides.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Cheese Patties
Looking for quick answers before making your broccoli cheese patties? Here are the most common questions people ask—with clear, helpful answers.
❓ Are broccoli cheese patties healthy?
Absolutely! These patties are made with nutrient-rich broccoli, high-protein cheese, and baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried. That means fewer calories, more fiber, and a solid boost of vitamin C, calcium, and antioxidants. Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or oats to make them even healthier.
❓ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine. Just steam or microwave it until tender, then drain thoroughly and chop finely. The key is to remove excess moisture, so your patties hold together and crisp up beautifully.
❓ How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
If your cheesy veggie patties crumble, it’s likely due to too much moisture or not enough binding ingredients. Try these fixes:
- Squeeze out water from the broccoli
- Add more breadcrumbs or a tablespoon of flour
- Make sure your eggs are large enough to bind everything
❓ Can I make these broccoli patties without eggs?
Definitely. If you’re avoiding eggs, use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 2.5 tablespoons water) or mashed potatoes as a binding substitute. You can also try vegan cheese if you’re going completely plant-based.
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