Looking for a delicious, nutritious way to enjoy broccoli? These Broccoli Cheese Patties are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and perfect for both adults and picky eaters alike. They make a fantastic side dish, meatless main, or snack you can prep ahead of time.
If you’ve ever struggled to get your family to eat more veggies, this recipe might just be the solution. Packed with shredded cheese, garlic, and seasonings, these patties disguise broccoli in the most irresistible way.
Before you start, you might want to check out this guide on the health benefits of broccoli. Not only is it loaded with vitamins C, K, and fiber—it’s also a powerhouse for heart and digestive health.
And if you’re unsure about breadcrumbs or looking to avoid store-bought, here’s how to make homemade breadcrumbs from scratch using pantry staples. It’s a great way to control texture and ingredients.
🥦 What Are Broccoli Cheese Patties?
Broccoli Cheese Patties are a delicious and versatile way to enjoy vegetables—especially for people who aren’t naturally broccoli fans. These savory patties combine steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs into small, flavorful cakes that are pan-fried, baked, or even air-fried until golden and crispy.
They’re part fritter, part veggie burger, and part comfort food, all rolled into one.
🧀 A Perfect Blend of Texture and Flavor
What makes broccoli cheese patties so irresistible is the contrast in textures:
- Crispy on the outside from frying or baking
- Soft and cheesy inside thanks to melty cheese and moist broccoli
- Packed with garlic, herbs, and just the right amount of seasoning
When made right, they have a perfect golden crust that gives way to a warm, comforting center that’s bursting with flavor.
🧂 Make it a Meal
Pair these veggie patties with:
- A creamy side like Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- A protein-packed favorite like Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- A crunchy appetizer such as Cheesy Garlic Butter Bombs
🍽️ Why People Love Them
These patties have become popular for good reason:
- Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy, crunchy texture
- Customizable: Swap in different cheeses, herbs, or veggies
- Meal-prep friendly: Make ahead and reheat easily
- Low waste: Great for using up leftover cooked broccoli or cheese
- Healthier option: Baked or air-fried versions are lighter than traditional fritters
🍴 Not Just a Side Dish
While they’re often served as a side dish, broccoli cheese patties can also shine as:
- A meatless main course with salad or roasted vegetables
- A lunchbox staple for school or work
- A burger substitute tucked into a bun
- A quick, healthy snack with a dipping sauce
🥦 Add More Greens & Flavor
Want to incorporate even more vegetables? Try mixing in cooked spinach or serving your patties alongside a grain bowl like the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for a complete, fiber-rich meal.
👨🍳 Quick Summary
- Main ingredients: Broccoli, cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic
- Cooking methods: Pan-fried, baked, or air-fried
- Versatility: Works as a side, snack, or light meal
- Diet-friendly: Easy to make gluten-free or low-carb with a few swaps
Broccoli Cheese Patties are one of those rare recipes that are easy to make, loaded with vegetables, and still feel like comfort food. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week, these patties fit right into a healthy, satisfying routine.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into these cheesy, veggie-packed bites:
Making Broccoli Cheese Patties doesn’t require anything fancy—just simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a cheesy, flavorful veggie patty with the perfect crisp.
Whether you’re preparing them as a side dish, a snack, or a meatless meal, here’s everything you’ll need:
🥦 Main Ingredients
These are the core components of the recipe:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Steam until tender and chop finely. Frozen broccoli can be used but must be thawed and drained thoroughly. - 1¼ cups shredded cheese
Cheddar is classic, but Swiss, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella also work. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. - ¼ cup breadcrumbs
Soft breadcrumbs give the patties structure. Use panko for extra crispiness, or substitute with almond flour for a low-carb version. - 2 large eggs
Act as a binder to hold the mixture together. For vegan patties, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
🧄 Flavor Enhancers
These give the patties their savory punch:
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Fresh garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor. - 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
A mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary pairs well with broccoli and cheese. - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Season the mixture well to enhance flavor throughout.
🫒 For Cooking
- Olive oil
Used for pan-frying. You can also use avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil.
🧠 Pro Tip: If baking or air-frying, brush patties lightly with oil or spray with nonstick spray to promote crisping.
🧀 Cheese Notes
You can use a single cheese or a blend for more complexity. Some great options include:
- Sharp cheddar: Classic and flavorful
- Swiss or Gruyère: Melty and nutty
- Mozzarella: Mild and stretchy
- Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick
Avoid pre-shredded cheese when possible—it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re just steps away from enjoying golden, crispy, Broccoli Cheese Patties that everyone will love.
🧠 Tip: Grate your own cheese for better melt and avoid pre-shredded varieties that contain anti-caking agents.
👨🍳 How to Make Broccoli Cheese Patties
Step 1: Steam and Chop the Broccoli
- Steam broccoli florets for 3–5 minutes until tender.
- Let cool slightly, then chop finely using a knife or food processor.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Chopped broccoli
- Cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
- Form into palm-sized patties (about 8 total).
- If mixture is too loose, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes or add more breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Pan-Fry Until Golden
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side or until crispy and golden.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain.
🔁 Variations to Try
One of the best things about Broccoli Cheese Patties is how versatile they are. Whether you’re adapting the recipe for dietary needs, taste preferences, or simply using what you have on hand, there are plenty of creative ways to switch things up.
Here are some tried-and-true variations you’ll love:
🔥 Baked Broccoli Patties
- Instead of pan-frying, place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Healthier and less mess in the kitchen!
🍃 Air Fryer Version
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray patties with a light coat of oil.
- Air-fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once at the halfway mark.
- Super crispy with minimal oil.
🌱 Vegan Broccoli Patties
- Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Use dairy-free shredded cheese like cashew cheddar or almond mozzarella.
- Great for plant-based diets without sacrificing flavor.
🥕 Add-Ins for Extra Veggies
Boost nutrition and add color with these additions:
- Grated carrots for sweetness and fiber
- Zucchini (squeeze dry before adding)
- Chopped spinach for a leafy green boost
- Corn kernels for a pop of sweetness
🌶️ Spicy Kick
- Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or pepper jack cheese for heat lovers.
- Serve with spicy mayo or sriracha yogurt sauce.
No matter how you tweak the recipe, these variations still keep the essence of the dish intact—crispy, cheesy, veggie-packed patties that are easy to love and hard to stop eating.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
These broccoli cheese patties are super versatile:
- Pair with grilled chicken or turkey burgers
- Serve as a vegetarian main with a side salad
- Pack in lunchboxes or enjoy cold as meal prep
- Add to wraps or buns as a veggie burger substitute
- Dip in ranch, garlic aioli, or sriracha mayo
💡 Health Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli isn’t just tasty—it’s one of the most nutrient-rich vegetables you can eat. It’s loaded with:
- Vitamin C (for immune support)
- Vitamin K (for bone health)
- Fiber (for digestion and weight management)
- Antioxidants (to fight inflammation and support heart health)
For more, visit Healthline’s article on broccoli benefits.
🧊 Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
In the Fridge:
- Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a dry skillet or air fryer for crispness.
- Microwaving is quick but may soften the crust.
In the Freezer:
- Freeze raw patties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Cook directly from frozen (add 2–3 minutes extra time).
🧠 Pro Tip: Make a double batch and freeze half for busy weeknights!
🧮 Nutritional Info (Per Patty – Approximate)
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: <1g
These patties are low in carbs, high in fiber, and loaded with vegetable-based nutrition—ideal for balanced diets.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and refrigerate the uncooked mixture up to 24 hours in advance.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely. Baking is cleaner and healthier—just brush with oil and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar is most popular, but Swiss, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack melt beautifully too.
How do I keep them from falling apart?
Use fresh breadcrumbs and let the patties rest before frying. If still too loose, refrigerate the mixture or add more binder (breadcrumbs or another egg).
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out all moisture before mixing to avoid soggy patties.
🔗 Internal Linking Summary (Rich Anchor Text Suggestions)
| Anchor Text | Link |
|---|---|
| French Onion Meatloaf | French Onion Meatloaf Recipe |
| Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage | Cheesy Ranch Potatoes |
| Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes | Creamy Garlic Baby Potatoes |
| Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta | Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta |
| Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken | Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken |
| Cheesy Garlic Butter Bombs | Cheesy Garlic Butter Bombs |
| Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl | Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl |
🏁 Final Thoughts
Broccoli Cheese Patties are the ultimate veggie comfort food—cheesy, crispy, nutritious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting a brunch, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers flavor and satisfaction every time.
With simple ingredients, flexible methods (pan-fry, bake, or air-fry), and tons of room for variation, it’s no surprise this dish has become a household favorite.
🌟 Give it a try and don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular part of your weekly rotation!