Broccoli Cheese Patties

Broccoli cheese patties are delicious and flavorful vegetarian patties made with a combination of broccoli, cheese, and other ingredients. These patties are a delightful way to incorporate broccoli and cheese into your meals! Crispy and golden on the outside with a warm, melty mozzarella surprise hidden in the center — they are as fun to bite into as they are satisfying.

What are Broccoli cheese patties made of?

Broccoli cheese patties are made of the following ingredients:

1. Broccoli: Broccoli is the main vegetable ingredient and provides a nutritious and flavorful base for the patties. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a healthy addition to the dish.
2. All-purpose Flour: All-purpose flour is used as a binding agent to hold the patties together. It helps give the patties a cohesive texture when combined with the other ingredients.
3. Grated Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the patties. It complements the broccoli and other ingredients, providing a delicious cheesy taste.
4. Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture to the patties, making them crispy on the outside. They also help to absorb excess moisture and enhance the overall consistency.
5. Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is the melty and gooey surprise at the center of each patty. It adds a delightful burst of cheesiness when the patties are cooked, elevating their taste.

These ingredients create delicious Broccoli Cheese Patties that offer a delightful combination of nutritious broccoli, cheesy goodness, and a satisfyingly crispy texture. They are versatile, flavorful, and perfect as appetizers, side dishes, or even as a vegetarian burger option.

Is cheese and broccoli healthy?

Yes, cheese and broccoli can be part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Broccoli is a highly nutritious vegetable, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, folate, potassium, and antioxidants. Broccoli is known for its potential health benefits, including supporting heart health, aiding digestion, and boosting the immune system.

Cheese, on the other hand, is a dairy product that provides essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and certain vitamins. However, it is also relatively high in saturated fat and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals who are watching their fat intake or have specific dietary concerns.

When combined, broccoli and cheese can create a delicious and nutritious dish, such as Broccoli and Cheese Patties as mentioned here. The broccoli adds a healthy dose of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, while the cheese contributes calcium and protein. To keep the dish healthier, consider using lower-fat cheese varieties or reducing the amount of cheese used.

How to make Broccoli cheese patties?

In a mixing bowl, combine steamed and chopped broccoli with all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined. Shape the mixture into patties by scooping a portion and molding it with your hands. Make an indentation in the center of each patty and add some shredded mozzarella cheese into the indentation. Carefully seal the cheese within the patty, reshaping it into a flat disc. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil or use cooking spray to coat the surface. Place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for 3–4 minutes on each side or until they become golden brown and crispy.

Once the patties are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Serve the warm and delightful broccoli and cheese patties as a tasty appetizer, side dish, or even as a vegetarian burger patty. They can be complemented with dipping sauces or savored on their own!

If you like broccoli, check out these healthy recipes:

• Broccoli and Grapefruit Salad
• Green Goddess Salad
• Finnish Creamy Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

A Note from Chef Ana

These Broccoli Cheese Patties are a dish I absolutely love preparing for my private dinner clients in The Woodlands and the greater Houston area. Kids and adults alike go wild for the surprise of melted mozzarella hidden inside each crispy, golden patty. My philosophy has always been about elevating classic American comfort food with proper technique and the freshest local Texas ingredients. I source as much as I can from local farms and markets in the Houston area, because fresh, seasonal produce always makes a noticeable difference.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, planning a celebration, or simply want a wholesome meal for your family, I would love to bring this recipe — and many more — to your table. Feel free to reach out to learn more about my personal and private chef services in The Woodlands, Spring, Tomball, Conroe, and the greater Houston area.

Substitutions & Variations

As a personal chef who specializes in dietary accommodations, I always encourage my clients to adapt recipes to their individual needs. Here are some practical variations for this recipe:

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for almond flour and gluten-free panko. The patties hold together just as well and fry up beautifully crispy.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use a plant-based mozzarella for the melty center. The overall flavor stays rich and satisfying.
• Baked Version: For a lighter take, arrange the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these broccoli cheese patties?

Yes. Form the patties, place them on a parchment-lined tray, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen over medium heat, adding an extra minute or two per side to make sure the center is heated through and the mozzarella melts completely.

Why are my patties falling apart in the pan?

The most common reason is too much moisture in the broccoli. Make sure to squeeze the steamed broccoli in a clean towel until almost dry before mixing. Another tip is to refrigerate the formed patties for 15 minutes before frying — the chilling helps them firm up and hold their shape.

Can I add an egg to the mixture for better binding?

Absolutely. One beaten egg mixed into the broccoli dough acts as an excellent binder and makes the patties even sturdier. It also gives the interior a slightly fluffier texture while the outside stays crispy.

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