Cheesy Broccoli Fritters

Introduction

There’s something magical about taking everyday veggies like broccoli and turning them into crispy, cheesy bites of joy. Cheesy Broccoli Fritters do exactly that—transforming humble broccoli into a crispy, savory treat that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. You get the richness of melted cheese, the crunch of a perfectly fried exterior, and the delicious surprise of tender, steamed broccoli inside.

These fritters are one of those recipes I can’t get enough of. They’ve quickly become a favorite in my household, especially during busy weeknights when you’re looking for something quick but packed with flavor. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without anyone even realizing it! Whether you’re serving them alongside a main dish or just nibbling on them as a snack, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen, just like they did in mine.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was searching for a way to use up some leftover broccoli. I wanted something easy, fun, and, of course, cheesy. After some experimenting with different combinations, these fritters were born, and they quickly won over my family. They’re the perfect balance of crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and totally customizable. Plus, they’re super quick to whip up, making them the ideal choice for when you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Broccoli Fritters aren’t just about the flavor—although, trust me, the flavor is fantastic. These little fritters are a must-try for several reasons:

• Easy to make: With simple, everyday ingredients, these fritters come together quickly. No complicated techniques, no long cooking times—just a few steps and you’re ready to enjoy them.
• Perfect for the whole family: They’re a hit with both kids and adults. Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist the cheesy goodness, making it a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables.
• Crispy and comforting: The outer crunch is balanced with the soft, cheesy interior. You get the best of both worlds—the crispy texture everyone loves, paired with the melty cheese and tender broccoli.
• Customizable: You can mix in extra seasonings or swap out the cheese based on what you have at home. It’s a flexible recipe that can easily be tailored to your tastes.

I love making these fritters when I need something quick and satisfying. The combination of flavors—cheese, herbs, and the slight bitterness of broccoli—feels like a comforting hug in every bite. Whether you’re having them for lunch or serving them at a gathering, these fritters are sure to steal the show.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Makes about 12-14 fritters

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 150
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 12g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g

Ingredients

To make these Cheesy Broccoli Fritters, you’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups of fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped (steamed or blanched)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese you like; mozzarella works too!)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Why these ingredients?

• Broccoli: Steamed or blanched, broccoli provides a healthy base that’s mild yet flavorful.
• Cheddar and Parmesan cheese: The combination of these two cheeses adds both creaminess and sharpness, giving the fritters a rich flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Used to bind everything together and create that crispy golden crust.
• Eggs: These hold everything together and give the fritters a nice texture.
• Herbs and seasonings: A little garlic, onion, paprika, and parsley elevate the flavor and make these fritters truly irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these Cheesy Broccoli Fritters. Trust me, you’re going to love how easy it is to prepare this dish. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of golden, crispy fritters in no time!

1. Prepare the broccoli: Start by steaming or blanching the broccoli. If you’re steaming, just steam the broccoli florets for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender. Alternatively, you can blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and then shock them in an ice bath. Once cooked, drain the broccoli well and chop it into small pieces. This will help the fritters hold together better.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and finely chopped onion. Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Add the broccoli: Toss your chopped broccoli into the bowl with the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the broccoli is evenly coated.
4. Stir in the cheese and breadcrumbs: Now, add the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to help it hold together.
5. Form the fritters: Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the mixture and gently form them into patties (about the size of a golf ball, then flatten them slightly). The mixture should hold together nicely, but if it’s a bit crumbly, don’t worry! Just gently press the patties together as you shape them.
6. Fry the fritters: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fritters in the pan. You should hear a sizzle when they hit the pan—this is a good sign! Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and serve: Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a minute before serving.

How to Serve

These Cheesy Broccoli Fritters are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special:

• Serve with a dipping sauce: A dollop of sour cream or a tangy ranch dressing would pair perfectly with these fritters.
• Serve over a salad: For a light lunch, serve the fritters over a fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
• As a side dish: These fritters make a fantastic side dish to any main course, from grilled chicken to pasta or even a veggie burger.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a little extra flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Cheesy Broccoli Fritters turn out perfect every time:

1. Cook the broccoli well: Make sure your broccoli is cooked until tender, but not mushy. Overcooked broccoli can make the fritters soggy.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space in the pan for each fritter to crisp up nicely.
3. Use the right cheese: Shredded cheddar gives the fritters a nice sharpness, while Parmesan adds depth. Feel free to mix up the cheeses, but use one that melts well.
4. Adjust the consistency: If your fritter mixture seems too runny, add more breadcrumbs until you get the right consistency. You want the fritters to hold their shape while frying.
5. Keep them crispy: After frying, let the fritters rest on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. If you want extra crispy fritters, pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes after frying.

Recipe Variations

These Cheesy Broccoli Fritters are super flexible, and you can switch things up to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:

1. Vegan Option: Swap the eggs for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use dairy-free cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
2. Add-ins: Mix in some grated carrots, zucchini, or even cooked quinoa for added texture and flavor.
3. Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds for a gluten-free version.
4. Spicy Fritters: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
5. Meat Lovers’ Fritters: Add cooked bacon, turkey bacon, or sausage for an extra savory element.

Serving Suggestions

To make a complete meal, pair your Cheesy Broccoli Fritters with:

• Side Dishes: Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, a fresh cucumber salad, or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting meal.
• Beverages: Pair with a light, crisp white wine, or go for a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water.
• For kids: These fritters are a great snack for kids, served with a side of fruit or a bowl of creamy hummus.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftovers (or just want to make a big batch to enjoy later), these fritters freeze beautifully. Here’s how to store them:

1. Storage: Place cooked fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze the fritters on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot and crispy.

Special Equipment

To get the best results with these fritters, here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: For frying the fritters evenly. A non-stick skillet works great for this.
• Baking Sheet: If you choose to bake them after frying for extra crispiness.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: To drain any excess moisture from the broccoli, ensuring your fritters stay crispy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before chopping it into small pieces.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the fritters on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
3. How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart?
   The key is to ensure the mixture isn’t too wet. If it’s too loose, add more breadcrumbs until it holds its shape.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the fritters ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry or bake them.

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Conclusion

If you’re looking for a way to jazz up your veggie routine, these Cheesy Broccoli Fritters are just what you need! Crispy, cheesy, and so satisfying, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you make them for a quick lunch, serve them as a side dish, or snack on them while watching your favorite show, they’ll never disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try them, and I’m sure you’ll love them just as much as I do.

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or leave a comment below letting me know how your fritters turned out. I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations!