Broccoli Cheese Patties

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Looking for a tasty way to incorporate more veggies into your diet? These Broccoli Cheese Patties are the perfect solution! Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, they’re a delightful treat for both kids and adults. Discover how to whip up these crispy, cheesy delights with our easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 slices of melting cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda), cut into small squares
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Form the Patties: Take a small portion of the mixture and flatten it into a patty in the palm of your hand. Place a square of melting cheese in the center of the patty, then fold the edges of the patty around the cheese to enclose it completely. Shape it into a round patty, ensuring the cheese is sealed inside. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese squares until all the patties are formed.
  3. Fry the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the broccoli cheese patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Drain and Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top of the patties before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
  2. Pair with Dipping Sauce: Serve the broccoli cheese patties with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for added flavor.
  3. Make it a Meal: Serve the patties as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
  4. Sandwich it Up: Place the patties between burger buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a delicious veggie burger alternative.
  5. Brunch Favorite: Serve these patties as part of a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and toast for a hearty and filling meal.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover broccoli cheese patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through before serving.
  2. Freezing: To freeze the patties, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until heated through.
  3. Layer with Parchment: If stacking the patties for storage, place a piece of parchment paper between each patty to prevent them from sticking together.

Variations:

  1. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy version of these patties.
  2. Mushroom Medley: Mix in sautéed mushrooms and onions for an earthy flavor boost.
  3. Italian Twist: Incorporate Italian seasoning and sun-dried tomatoes into the mixture for an Italian-inspired flair.
  4. Greek-Inspired: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, and a dash of lemon zest for a Mediterranean twist.
  5. Tex-Mex Flavors: Mix in diced green chilies, corn kernels, and shredded pepper jack cheese for a Tex-Mex twist.
  6. Asian Fusion: Add grated ginger, soy sauce, and chopped scallions for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
  7. Cheesy Bacon: Fold in crispy bacon bits along with the cheese mixture for a savory and indulgent option.
  8. Herbaceous Delight: Experiment with different herbs such as dill, thyme, or cilantro to add a fresh and aromatic touch.
  9. Quinoa Crunch: Replace breadcrumbs with cooked quinoa for added protein and a nutty flavor.
  10. Sweet Potato Surprise: Mix in mashed sweet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrients.
  11. Spinach and Artichoke: Add chopped spinach and marinated artichoke hearts for a flavorful and nutritious twist.
  12. Buffalo Style: Toss the patties in buffalo sauce after frying for a spicy and tangy kick.
  13. Caprese Inspired: Add diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese for a Caprese-inspired flavor profile.
  14. Curry Infusion: Mix in curry powder, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for an exotic twist.
  15. Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs, use vegan cheese, and skip Parmesan for a vegan-friendly version of these patties.
  16. Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Mix chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil into the broccoli mixture for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
  17. Black Bean & Corn Fiesta: Add mashed black beans and corn kernels to the mixture for a Southwestern twist. Serve with salsa and avocado for a fiesta on your plate.
  18. Pesto Paradise: Incorporate pesto sauce into the broccoli mixture for an herby and savory option. Serve with a dollop of pesto on top for an extra flavor boost.
  19. Buffalo Cauliflower: Replace broccoli with cauliflower florets and toss them in buffalo sauce before mixing with the cheese and other ingredients. Perfect for spice lovers!
  20. Kale & Goat Cheese: Substitute kale for broccoli and mix in crumbled goat cheese for a sophisticated flavor combination. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness.

With these additional variations, you can customize your broccoli cheese patties to suit your taste preferences and create exciting new flavor combinations!

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before chopping and using in the recipe.
  2. Can I omit the cheese for a dairy-free option? Yes, you can omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives if you prefer a dairy-free version of these patties.
  3. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or provolone for unique flavor combinations.
  5. Can I make these patties gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute for breadcrumbs to make these patties gluten-free.
  6. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time and fry it later? Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to fry. Just make sure to shape the patties just before frying for best results.
  7. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart during frying? Make sure the mixture is well-combined and holds together when pressed. If the mixture seems too wet, you can add more breadcrumbs to bind it together.
  8. Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli? Yes, you can use other vegetables such as cauliflower, zucchini, or carrots in place of broccoli for different variations of these patties.
  9. Are these patties suitable for meal prep? Yes, these patties are great for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy meals.
  10. Can I serve these patties cold? While they are best served hot and crispy, you can enjoy these patties cold as a tasty addition to salads or sandwiches.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness of these Broccoli Cheese Patties. With their crispy exterior, gooey cheese center, and nutritious broccoli filling, they’re guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household!