Golden Broccoli Cheesy Fritters

Featured in Tasty Appetizers.

Turn broccoli into irresistible cheesy fritters everyone will enjoy! In this recipe, perfectly tender broccoli combines with savory Parmesan for golden patties that are crisp on the outside and soft inside. By gently mashing the broccoli, you get a smooth base while keeping its nutrition intact. Dip in a simple yogurt-lemon sauce, and you've got a quick appetizer, a satisfying vegetarian side, or even a light meal. You can even sub in cauliflower or use broccoli stems to get the most out of your veggies. Quick, easy, and ready in 35 minutes!
punchofyummy
Updated on Mon, 10 Mar 2025 18:01:36 GMT
Golden-brown broccoli fritters with a crunchy crust and soft center. Pin it
Golden-brown broccoli fritters with a crunchy crust and soft center. | pinchofyummy.com

These homestyle broccoli fritters combine fresh vegetables with savory Parmesan cheese into crispy, golden-brown patties. Each fritter features a crunchy exterior that gives way to tender broccoli and melted cheese inside. The addition of fresh herbs and garlic creates layers of flavor in every bite.

This recipe was developed through careful testing to achieve the ideal texture and taste. The combination of fresh broccoli and aged Parmesan creates a vegetable dish that appeals to even picky eaters.

Key Ingredients

  • Broccoli florets: Choose fresh, bright green heads with tight flowers
  • Parmesan cheese: Use aged cheese for best flavor
  • Large eggs: Provide structure and binding
  • All-purpose flour: Creates the right texture
  • Fresh garlic: Adds aromatic flavor
  • Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and color
  • Olive oil: For proper frying and flavor

Preparation Method

Prepare Broccoli:
Steam florets until tender-crisp. Cool in ice water and chop finely.
Mix Ingredients:
Combine broccoli and grated Parmesan in mixing bowl.
Make Batter:
Beat eggs and seasonings, then mix into vegetables.
Form Patties:
Shape into 3-inch round patties of even thickness.
Cook Fritters:
Fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides.
Savory broccoli fritters packed with herbs and cheese. Pin it
Savory broccoli fritters packed with herbs and cheese. | pinchofyummy.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with lemon-dressed arugula salad. For an elegant presentation, add Greek yogurt sauce and roasted tomatoes with balsamic glaze.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with different cheese combinations like provolone and pecorino. Add roasted peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Use alternative flours for gluten-free options.

Storage Instructions

Cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Keeps in refrigerator for 3 days or freezer for 3 months. Reheat at 375°F until crispy.

Easy broccoli fritters perfect for a healthy snack or side dish. Pin it
Easy broccoli fritters perfect for a healthy snack or side dish. | pinchofyummy.com

These broccoli Parmesan fritters offer a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them an appealing choice for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prep these ahead?
Sure! You can mix the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day. Cook the fritters fresh for the best texture.
→ Why mash the broccoli?
Mashing creates a smoother mix and helps the fritters hold their shape better. It also makes them more appealing, especially for picky eaters!
→ Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Cook and cool the fritters first, then freeze. Warm them up at 350°F in the oven for 10-15 minutes to restore their crunch.
→ What goes well with these?
You can pair them with marinara, aioli, or even add them to a vegetarian plate with some salad on the side.
→ How can I tell when they’re ready?
The fritters should feel firm and be golden on both sides, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat.

Golden Broccoli Cheesy Fritters

Crunchy, veggie-packed broccoli fritters with cheesy goodness. Served alongside a tangy yogurt dip, they’re a fun way to add more greens to your table.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Amelia

Category: Tasty Appetizers

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Yield: 6 Servings (6 fritters)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Base

01 3 cups of chopped broccoli—include stems and florets
02 2 tablespoons of oil (your choice: olive, vegetable, or canola)

→ Batter

03 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
04 1/2 cup plain all-purpose flour
05 1 egg
06 A pinch of salt—around 1/2 teaspoon
07 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
08 A couple of tablespoons of milk (measure 2 tablespoons)
09 Some ground black pepper to season

→ Yoghurt Sauce

10 1/4 cup of unsweetened plain yoghurt
11 Add 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
12 A sprinkle of salt and a dash of pepper—adjust to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Steam or microwave the broccoli until it’s soft but not mushy—about 3 minutes should do it. Mash it lightly using a potato masher so it flattens slightly but stays chunky.

Step 02

Stir together the yoghurt, lemon juice, pepper, and salt in a small bowl, then let it sit in the fridge.

Step 03

Crack the egg into a bowl and whisk it lightly. Add the garlic, flour, parmesan, milk, salt, and pepper. Once that’s mixed, toss in the mashed broccoli and stir everything until it’s evenly combined.

Step 04

Heat a skillet with some oil over medium heat. Scoop out 1/4 cup portions of the batter and press them down to about 1cm thick. Fry up to three at a time, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes, until both sides are crispy and golden.

Step 05

Serve the fritters warm with the yoghurt sauce. Add lemon wedges on the side if you’re in the mood for extra zing.

Notes

  1. You can swap broccoli with cauliflower if you want.
  2. Broccoli stems work too—just peel off the tough outer layer first.
  3. Kids love these, so it’s a fun way to get them eating veggies.

Tools You'll Need

  • A flat skillet or frying pan
  • A potato masher to lightly crush broccoli
  • Bowls for mixing
  • Standard measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Has dairy (yoghurt and parmesan)
  • Contains egg
  • Includes gluten because of the flour

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 126
  • Total Fat: 1.6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 11.9 g
  • Protein: 5.4 g