Broccoli Fritters

Okay, I’ll let you in on a little secret. These broccoli fritters changed everything in my kitchen. I used to be that person who’d push broccoli around my plate, pretending to eat it. Then I discovered how magical crispy, cheesy broccoli fritters could be.

Now? I actually crave them. The first time I made these golden little patties, my kids devoured them before I could even snap a photo. That crunchy outside gives way to the most perfect cheesy, broccoli-packed center. Whether you need a quick lunch, a sneaky way to get veggies into picky eaters, or just something delicious to dunk in ranch, these broccoli fritters are about to become your new favorite thing.

Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Fritters

Let me count the ways these little green gems will steal your heart:

• They’re ridiculously easy – just mix, scoop, and fry. No fancy skills needed!
• That perfect crunch on the outside gives way to a tender, cheesy center. Trust me, you’ll burn your fingers because you can’t wait to take the first bite.
• Packed with broccoli but tasting like a treat, they’re my go-to for sneaking veggies into my kids (and myself).
• Ready in about 30 minutes flat – faster than takeout when those snack attacks hit.
• The cheese. Oh, the cheese! That cheddar-Parmesan combo makes them irresistible.

Once you try them, you’ll understand why I make a double batch every single time.

Ingredients for Broccoli Fritters

Grab these simple ingredients and let’s make some magic happen. I’ve tested this combo a dozen times, and trust me, every single one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect crispy-cheesy bite.

• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped: Fresh is best here, but frozen works in a pinch (just thaw and squeeze out extra water first).
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch, but any melty cheese works.
• 2 large eggs: Our binding superstars that hold everything together.
• 1/2 cup almond flour: Keeps these gluten-free while adding nutty richness. Regular flour works too if that’s what you’ve got.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The salty kick that takes these from good to “can’t stop eating.”
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic, right?
• 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Basic but essential flavor boosters.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For when you want a little heat.
• Olive oil for frying: Just enough to coat your pan for that perfect golden crust.

See? Nothing fancy, just real ingredients that come together in the most delicious way. Now let’s get cooking!

How to Make Broccoli Fritters

Alright, let’s turn these simple ingredients into crispy little bites of heaven. I promise it’s easier than you think! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have golden fritters ready to devour in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

First things first, we need to soften those broccoli florets. I steam mine for about 5-7 minutes until they’re fork-tender but still bright green. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve lost that raw crunch but haven’t turned mushy.

Here’s my secret: immediately transfer them to a colander and let them cool while draining. This prevents soggy fritters. I sometimes even give them a gentle pat with a paper towel to soak up any extra moisture. Dry broccoli means crispier fritters!

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Now for the fun part! Grab your biggest mixing bowl and toss in the steamed broccoli, cheddar, eggs, almond flour, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings. I use my hands to mix everything together, it’s messy but so satisfying! You want every single broccoli floret coated in that cheesy, eggy mixture.

Don’t be shy about getting in there and making sure there are no dry pockets of flour. The texture should hold together when you pinch it, like a thick, sticky batter with little green specks throughout.

Step 3: Fry the Fritters

Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your favorite skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers (that’s when you know it’s ready), scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and gently form it into a patty. I use my fingers to flatten it slightly: About 1/2 inch thick works perfectly.

Drop it in the oil and repeat until your pan is full but not crowded. Listen for that satisfying sizzle! After 3-4 minutes, you’ll see gorgeous golden edges forming.

That’s your cue to flip them. Another 3 minutes on the other side, and you’ve got crispy, cheesy perfection. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and try not to eat them all before they reach the table!

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Fritters

After making these fritters more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that make all the difference.

First, dry that broccoli like your fritters depend on it (because they do). I pat mine with paper towels until no moisture comes off. When frying, don’t crowd the pan; give each fritter space to crisp up properly. Medium heat is key. Too hot, and they’ll burn before cooking through. Too low, and they’ll soak up oil like little sponges.

And here’s my golden rule: let them sit for a minute after flipping before eating. That extra time helps them hold together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Fritters

Oh, the possibilities! These fritters are like little green canvases waiting for your creativity. My absolute favorite way is dunking them in cool, creamy ranch dressing; the contrast with that crispy crust is everything.

But don’t stop there! Try them with garlic yogurt dip for a tangy twist, or mix some sriracha into mayo if you like heat. They’re perfect alongside a simple green salad for lunch, or you can stack them up as a fun side dish with grilled chicken.

Last week, I even sandwiched them between buns with extra cheese for the most epic veggie burger. Whatever you choose, just make sure you make plenty – they disappear fast!

Storage and Reheating

Here’s the good news: These broccoli fritters keep beautifully! Let them cool completely, then tuck them into an airtight container in the fridge where they’ll stay happy for about 3 days. When that fritter craving hits again (and trust me, it will), skip the microwave unless you love soggy textures.

Instead, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or give them a quick fry in a dry skillet. Either way, you’ll bring back that magical crispiness that makes these so irresistible. They never last long enough in my house to test freezing, but I hear they freeze well too if you’re more disciplined than me!

Broccoli Fritters Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the fun really begins! Swap half the broccoli for cauliflower if you’re feeling adventurous; it adds a lovely mild sweetness. Feeling cheesy? Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist.

No almond flour? Regular all-purpose or even gluten-free flour blends work just fine. My neighbor swears by adding corn kernels for extra crunch. The best part? These fritters forgive experiments beautifully!

Nutritional Information

Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop: Each delicious fritter comes in at about 120 calories. Keep in mind that this changes slightly depending on your exact ingredients and how much oil they soak up while frying. With all that broccoli and protein-packed cheese, I like to think of these as my little green power bites!

FAQs About Broccoli Fritters

Easy & Healthy Recipes to Try Next

If you enjoyed these Broccoli Fritters, here are a few more simple and healthy recipes you’ll love. They’re fresh, flavorful, and great for quick meals during the week.

• Try Avocado Corn Salad for a refreshing side packed with bright flavors.
• Enjoy Salmon and Rice Bowl if you want a balanced, protein-rich meal.
• Make Carrot Ginger Soup for a warm, light, and comforting lunch.
• Try Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast for a rich and savory main dish that pairs well with veggie sides.

These easy recipes are great to explore next and will keep your meals fresh, tasty, and nutritious!

Time to Try these Broccoli Fritters

Did these broccoli fritters make it to your regular meal rotation as they did mine? I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Drop a quick note below telling me your favorite way to serve them or any clever twists you tried.

Your feedback helps me create more recipes you’ll love. And if you snapped a photo of your crispy creations, tag me. Nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen successes! And follow me on Pinterest for more ideas!