Broccoli Cheese Patties: Crispy, Cheesy, and Veggie-Packed Perfection

Introduction

Broccoli Cheese Patties are the ultimate way to enjoy vegetables in the most crave-worthy form—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a meatless lunch idea, or a healthy snack the whole family will love, these patties check every box. They’re perfect for picky eaters, meal preppers, or anyone trying to sneak more greens into their meals without sacrificing taste. With simple ingredients like steamed broccoli, cheese, eggs, and breadcrumbs, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes and serve them hot with your favorite dip or sauce. They’re also freezer-friendly and great for lunchboxes, making them a versatile recipe to add to your weekly rotation. The texture is crispy and golden outside while the inside remains soft, cheesy, and full of real broccoli flavor—making these patties both nutritious and irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Broccoli Cheese Patties, gather these simple ingredients: 2 cups finely chopped steamed broccoli (about 1 medium head), 1 large egg, ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko), 1 clove garlic (minced), ¼ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil for frying. Optional add-ins include chopped green onions, crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a dash of smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Preparing the Broccoli

Start by steaming your broccoli until tender, about 5–6 minutes. Then, chop it very finely—you want the pieces small enough to bind easily, but not so pureed that they lose their texture. Pat the chopped broccoli dry with a paper towel or clean cloth to remove excess moisture. Too much moisture can make the patties fall apart or turn soggy while cooking. Once your broccoli is prepped and dried, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.

Mixing the Patties

To the chopped broccoli, add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or clean hands to mix everything until fully combined and the mixture holds together when pressed. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water or an extra egg yolk. Once the mixture is well mixed, form it into small patties about the size of your palm—around 2–3 inches wide and ½ inch thick. You should get 6–8 patties depending on size.

Cooking the Patties

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties into the pan, leaving space between them. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully using a spatula and press slightly to ensure even cooking. If you prefer to bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a lined baking sheet, spray with a little oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For an even healthier version, you can also air fry them at 380°F (195°C) for about 12–15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli Cheese Patties are super versatile and can be served in many ways. Enjoy them as a snack with sour cream, Greek yogurt dip, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even burgers. They also make a great vegetarian main course when paired with a simple salad or some quinoa. Want to turn them into a sandwich? Stack a few in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and sauce for a quick veggie burger. They’re great hot or at room temperature, making them ideal for lunchboxes or picnics.

Tips for Success

Chop the broccoli finely so the patties bind well and don’t fall apart. Removing excess moisture is key—dry ingredients bind better and give you a crispier patty. Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor or mix cheeses like mozzarella for meltiness or pepper jack for a kick. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to get that nice golden crust. You can double the recipe and freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper for later. When cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Variations to Try

Broccoli Cheese Patties are super adaptable. Swap out broccoli for cauliflower, zucchini (squeeze dry), or spinach for a different veggie twist. Add chopped red peppers or grated carrots for color and sweetness. Switch the cheese to feta, goat cheese, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors. Use almond flour or oat flour for a gluten-free version. Add Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a Mediterranean touch, or sprinkle sesame seeds on the outside for crunch. Make mini patties for party appetizers or larger ones for veggie burgers.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to bring back the crispiness, or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. You can also microwave them, but the crust won’t stay as crisp. For freezing, place uncooked patties on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag or container. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cook time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Broccoli Cheese Patties are everything you want in a comfort food—crunchy, cheesy, and full of flavor, yet made with wholesome ingredients. They’re an easy way to eat more vegetables without it feeling like a chore. Kids love them, adults crave them, and they’re endlessly customizable to suit your dietary needs or pantry items. Whether you’re going meatless for a day or just want a fun and creative way to enjoy broccoli, this recipe delivers on both taste and texture. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and easy enough for beginners to master.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheese Patties are the perfect combination of healthy and delicious, turning a simple vegetable into a crave-worthy dish you’ll want to make again and again. With just a few pantry staples, you can transform humble broccoli into golden, crispy patties that rival any snack or side dish. They’re great for all ages and all occasions—from quick lunches to party trays. So grab some broccoli, cheese, and a few basic ingredients, and give this easy recipe a try. Once you take that first crispy, cheesy bite, you’ll see why these Broccoli Cheese Patties deserve a regular spot on your table.