Broccoli cheddar patties are more than just a side dish; they’re a flavorful journey that combines wholesome broccoli with the richness of sharp cheddar cheese, all baked to crispy perfection. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of cozy family dinners where these patties were always a hit. The combination of tender broccoli, savory garlic and onions, and the satisfying crunch of breadcrumbs brings back memories of laughter-filled evenings and the warmth of home cooking.
Ingredients
12 ounces Broccoli, frozen & defrosted
2 teaspoons Vegetable Oil
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1/2 Onion, chopped
3/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese
2 Eggs, beaten
Salt & Pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Lightly grease a baking sheet and line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Saute the Aromatics:
Heat vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and chopped onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Saute until the onions are tender and aromatic, then set aside to cool.
Prepare the Broccoli:
Place the defrosted broccoli on a kitchen towel and wrap it around the broccoli.
Squeeze out excess moisture from the broccoli. This step ensures the patties hold together well.
Transfer the drained broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
Combine Ingredients:
To the bowl with broccoli, add the cooled garlic and onion mixture.
Add Panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
Mix and Form Patties:
Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
Form the mixture into patties of your desired size and thickness. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Patties:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each patty.
Continue baking for another 15 minutes or until the patties are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
Serve warm as a delicious side dish or even as a vegetarian main course option.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere or mozzarella for varied flavor profiles.
Vegetable Substitutions: Swap broccoli with cauliflower or a mix of finely chopped vegetables like carrots and bell peppers.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of Panko for a gluten-free version.
Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg alternative, and use dairy-free cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These broccoli cheddar patties are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a wholesome addition to any meal. They strike a perfect balance between comforting flavors and satisfying crunch, making them ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The versatility of this recipe allows for creative adaptations to suit various dietary preferences without compromising on taste or texture. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty main course or enjoying them as a standalone dish, these patties are sure to bring joy to your table with every crispy bite.
Next time you’re looking for a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent, give these broccoli cheddar patties a try. They’re bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, just as they have been in mine. Happy cooking!
