Broccoli Cheese Patties

Introduction:

Broccoli Cheese Patties are a delightful way to sneak in some veggies while indulging in cheesy goodness. These crispy, golden patties are loaded with nutritious broccoli, creamy cheese, and flavorful seasonings, making them a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish. In this SEO article, we’ll explore the simple steps to create these mouthwatering patties, share a delectable recipe, and provide tips for making them a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 (12 ounce) bag frozen broccoli, defrosted
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prep the Broccoli: Start by draining the defrosted broccoli thoroughly. Chop it into small pieces, or for a finer texture, pulse it a few times in a food processor. The key is to remove as much moisture as possible to prevent the patties from becoming too soggy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant. This will add a depth of flavor to the patties.
3. Mix the Patty Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, sautéed garlic and onion, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until the mixture is homogenous.
4. Form the Patties: With clean hands, shape the mixture into patties. If the mixture is too sticky, you can oil your hands slightly or add a bit more breadcrumbs to the mix.
5. Cook the Patties: Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish.

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Hot: Broccoli Cheese Patties are best served hot, right out of the skillet, to ensure maximum crispiness and gooey cheese goodness.
2. Pair with Dipping Sauce: Serve the patties with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor. Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or sriracha mayo are popular options that complement the patties well.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or chives over the patties before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
4. Serve as a Side Dish: Broccoli Cheese Patties make a fantastic side dish for main courses like grilled chicken, fish, or steak. They also pair well with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have leftover patties, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheat Properly: To reheat the patties, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil until warmed.
3. Avoid Freezing: While you can technically freeze Broccoli Cheese Patties, the texture may suffer upon thawing, as they may become soggy. If you do choose to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer bag or container. Reheat them directly from frozen in the oven or skillet until heated through.
4. Prevent Sogginess: To prevent the patties from becoming soggy when storing leftovers, place a paper towel or parchment paper between each layer to absorb any excess moisture.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for making Broccoli Cheese Patties? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for this recipe. Thaw the broccoli completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping and incorporating it into the mixture.
2. Can I make Broccoli Cheese Patties ahead of time for a party? Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This makes them a convenient option for party appetizers or meal prep.
3. Can I bake Broccoli Cheese Patties instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the patties for a healthier alternative. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
4. Can I substitute the cheese in the recipe? Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. While cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices, you can also try Swiss, Gouda, or even a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.
5. Are Broccoli Cheese Patties suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Broccoli Cheese Patties are vegetarian-friendly since they contain no meat. They make a delicious and satisfying vegetarian option for those looking to incorporate more veggies into their diet.