If you are looking for a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dish that combines vibrant green broccoli with melty, golden cheese, you have to try this Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe. These fritters come together quickly, delivering a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful bite that’s loaded with nutrients and comfort. Whether you want a tasty appetizer, a veggie-packed snack, or a perfect side dish, this recipe brings simple ingredients to life with an irresistible blend of cheddar and mozzarella. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients right is key to making the best Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe. Each component plays an important role: fresh broccoli adds crunch and vibrance, cheeses provide gooey richness, and the spices bring warmth and a subtle kick. Plus, the flour and eggs bind everything perfectly so your fritters hold together just right.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Choose fresh or frozen broccoli, steamed and finely chopped for that perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, tangy flavor and lovely meltiness.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings a mild, creamy texture that balances the cheddar.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as a binder to hold the fritters together while frying.
- 2 large eggs beaten: Essential for binding the mixture and adding richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a subtle herbaceous note that complements the cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and an inviting color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Pinch of black pepper: Lends just a little heat and depth to the seasoning.
How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Broccoli
Start by steaming your broccoli florets until they are tender but still crisp, about 4 to 5 minutes. This method preserves their vibrant green color and nutrients. Once steamed, drain well and chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures each fritter is perfectly textured with broccoli’s natural bite.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Add the flour, beaten eggs, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a thorough mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed and you have a cohesive batter that’s ready to be shaped into fritters.
Step 3: Cook the Fritters
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a light coating of oil or cooking spray. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the broccoli mixture and form small patties, flattening them slightly to ensure even cooking. Place them in the skillet, leaving room between each. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until each fritter is golden brown and crispy, then transfer to paper towels briefly to drain any excess oil.
How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe
Garnishes
These fritters taste amazing on their own, but elevating them with fresh garnishes makes them extra special. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and mild herbal freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing pairs beautifully with the crispy and cheesy fritters, bringing a cooling contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve these fritters alongside a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. They also make a fantastic companion to roasted meats or grilled fish, providing a flavorful veggie twist. For a comforting meal, pair them with mashed potatoes or a bowl of warm soup – perfect for any season.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next gathering? Stack the fritters on a platter and sprinkle with extra cheese and fresh herbs. Alternatively, transform the Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe into slider-style mini sandwiches with a smear of garlic aioli and fresh arugula between slider buns. They also make excellent finger-food for parties when served with an array of dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo or honey mustard.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover fritters cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy this tasty Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe anytime without the hassle of starting from scratch.
Freezing
If you want to keep these fritters longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay good for up to 2 months, ready for you to pull out and enjoy when needed.
Reheating
To reheat, the oven or skillet is your best bet to maintain their crispiness. Warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or pan-fry with a light coating of oil until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunchy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well as long as you thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture. This prevents the fritters from becoming soggy and helps them hold together nicely.
What cheese works best in broccoli fritters?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp flavor and good melting properties. Adding mozzarella provides creaminess and stretch. You can experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan, but keep the balance so the fritters stay flavorful and melt perfectly.
Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just keep an eye on the batter consistency—it should be thick enough to hold together but not dry.
How do I prevent fritters from falling apart?
Make sure to squeeze out all excess moisture from the broccoli after steaming. Also, ensure you mix the batter thoroughly so the eggs and flour bind all ingredients well. Cooking them on medium heat and flipping gently helps keep their shape intact.
Are these fritters suitable as a snack for kids?
Definitely! These cheesy broccoli fritters are a wonderful way to sneak veggies into your kids’ diet. Their cheesy flavor and fun, snack-sized shape make them a kid-friendly favorite.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe is such a rewarding experience, especially when you taste that perfect blend of crisp texture, gooey cheese, and tender broccoli. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables in a fun, flavorful way that everyone will love. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and whip up a batch—you might just discover your new favorite go-to recipe.
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Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Recipe
These cheesy broccoli fritters are a quick and delicious way to enjoy a nutrient-rich snack, appetizer, or side dish. Packed with tender steamed broccoli and melty cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, these fritters deliver great flavor and crispiness in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a healthy treat or accompaniment to your meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Steam the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets for about 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain any excess water and chop the steamed broccoli into small pieces to prepare for mixing.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, beaten eggs, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a cohesive mixture.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease the surface with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking and help crisp the fritters.
- Form and Cook Fritters: Spoon the broccoli mixture into the skillet, shaping each portion into small patties about 1/4 cup each. Flatten them slightly with a spatula for even cooking. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until fritters turn golden brown and are crisp on the outside.
- Drain Excess Oil and Serve: Remove the cooked fritters from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve the fritters warm as a tasty appetizer or side, optionally with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Be careful not to oversteam the broccoli to retain a slight crunch in the fritters.
- You can substitute cheeses based on your preference, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Serve with sour cream, ranch, or a spicy aioli dip for added flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- These fritters can be kept warm in a low oven if preparing in batches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American