Broccoli And Cheese Fritters
I still remember the first time I made broccoli and cheese fritters for my family. It was a Sunday afternoon, and we were all looking for a snack that was both easy to make and delicious. I had some leftover broccoli and cheese in the fridge, and I decided to experiment with a simple fritter recipe. The result was a huge success - crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Since then, broccoli and cheese fritters have become a staple in our household. We make them for snacks, meals, and even as a side dish for special occasions. And the best part is that they are incredibly easy to make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer for later use.
In this recipe, I'll show you how to make broccoli and cheese fritters from scratch, using a simple and straightforward method that requires minimal ingredients and equipment. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef, you'll love the ease and versatility of this recipe.
So, what makes broccoli and cheese fritters so special? For starters, they're a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a fun and tasty way. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and when you combine it with cheese and other ingredients, you get a snack that's both healthy and satisfying.
Another reason I love broccoli and cheese fritters is that they're incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a snack on their own, or use them as a side dish for meals. They're also a great addition to salads, wraps, and sandwiches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Broccoli and cheese fritters are a healthy and delicious snack option
- They're easy to make ahead and store in the fridge or freezer for later use
- They're versatile and can be served as a snack, side dish, or addition to salads and sandwiches
- They're a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a fun and tasty way
- They're perfect for meals, snacks, or special occasions
- They're easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and seasonings
- They're a great option for meal prep and can be made in large batches
Why This Recipe Works
The key to making great broccoli and cheese fritters is to use the right combination of ingredients and cooking techniques. First, you need to choose the right type of broccoli - I prefer to use fresh broccoli florets, but you can also use frozen or canned broccoli if that's what you have on hand.
Next, you need to cook the broccoli until it's tender but still crisp. This is important because you want the broccoli to retain its texture and flavor when you mix it with the other ingredients. I like to steam the broccoli for a few minutes until it's tender, then let it cool before chopping it up and adding it to the fritter mixture.
Another important factor is the type of cheese you use. I prefer to use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, as they have a nice balance of flavor and texture. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, if you prefer.
Finally, the cooking technique is crucial. I like to use a combination of pan-frying and baking to cook the fritters, as this gives them a crispy exterior and a tender interior. You can also deep-fry the fritters if you prefer a crunchier texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make broccoli and cheese fritters, you'll need a few simple ingredients. The key players are broccoli, cheese, and a binder such as eggs or breadcrumbs. You'll also need some seasonings and spices to give the fritters flavor.
When shopping for ingredients, look for fresh broccoli and high-quality cheese. You can also use frozen or canned broccoli if that's what you have on hand. For the binder, you can use eggs, breadcrumbs, or a combination of both.
- 2 cups broccoli floretsFresh broccoli is best, but you can also use frozen or canned broccoli if that's what you have on hand. Look for broccoli with tight, compact florets and a fresh, green color.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheeseCheddar cheese has a nice balance of flavor and texture, but you can also use other types of cheese such as mozzarella or feta. Look for high-quality cheese with a rich, creamy flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a nice salty flavor to the fritters, but you can also use other types of cheese such as mozzarella or feta. Look for high-quality cheese with a rich, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is a good all-around choice for the fritter mixture, but you can also use other types of flour such as whole wheat or oat flour. Look for flour with a fine texture and a neutral flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbsBreadcrumbs help bind the fritter mixture together and add texture to the fritters. Look for breadcrumbs with a fine texture and a neutral flavor.
- 2 eggsEggs help bind the fritter mixture together and add moisture to the fritters. Look for eggs with a fresh, clean smell and a firm texture.
- 1/4 cup milkMilk adds moisture to the fritter mixture and helps to create a tender, creamy texture. Look for milk with a fresh, clean smell and a neutral flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon saltSalt enhances the flavor of the fritters and helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the broccoli. Look for salt with a fine texture and a pure, salty flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a nice spicy flavor to the fritters and helps to balance out the richness of the cheese. Look for black pepper with a fine texture and a sharp, peppery flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oilOlive oil is a good choice for pan-frying the fritters, as it has a high smoke point and a mild, fruity flavor. Look for olive oil with a rich, full-bodied flavor and a smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a nice fresh flavor to the fritters and helps to balance out the richness of the cheese. Look for parsley with a bright, green color and a fresh, herbal flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Broccoli And Cheese Fritters
- 1In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- 2In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- 3Add the grated cheese to the bowl with the eggs and mix until well combined.
- 4Add the chopped broccoli to the bowl with the cheese and mix until the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheese mixture.
- 5Add the dry ingredients to the bowl with the broccoli and cheese mixture, and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- 6Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 F.
- 7Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the fritter mixture into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
- 8Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165 F.
- 9Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- 10Serve the fritters hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
- 11Let the fritters cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
- 12To reheat the fritters, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350 F for 5-7 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overmix the fritter mixture, as this can make the fritters dense and heavy.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the fritters to stick together.
- Let the fritters cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
- Reheat the fritters in the oven for a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
- Experiment with different types of cheese and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination.
- Make the fritters in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for up to 3 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the fritter mixture, which can make the fritters dense and heavy.
- Not using enough oil, which can cause the fritters to stick to the skillet.
- Not cooking the fritters to the correct temperature, which can make them undercooked or overcooked.
- Not letting the fritters cool completely before storing them, which can cause them to become soggy or stale.
- Not reheating the fritters correctly, which can make them dry or overcooked.
- Not using fresh ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the fritters.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add some diced ham or bacon to the fritter mixture for a savory twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add some chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the fritter mixture for extra flavor.
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Add some grated carrot or zucchini to the fritter mixture for extra nutrition.
- Use a combination of broccoli and cauliflower for a different texture and flavor.
- Make the fritters in different shapes, such as balls or patties, for a fun twist.
What to Serve With Broccoli And Cheese Fritters
Broccoli and cheese fritters are a versatile snack that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve them on their own as a snack, or use them as a side dish for meals. They're also a great addition to salads, wraps, and sandwiches.
Some ideas for serving broccoli and cheese fritters include:
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
Broccoli and cheese fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months, and simply reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to eat them.
To store the fritters, simply let them cool completely on a wire rack, then place them in an airtight container. You can also wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for easy reheating.
When reheating the fritters, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350 F for 5-7 minutes, until crispy and golden brown. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.
Some tips for storing and reheating broccoli and cheese fritters include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make broccoli and cheese fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can make broccoli and cheese fritters ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Simply reheat them when you're ready to eat them.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli instead of fresh. Simply thaw the broccoli and squeeze out as much water as possible before using it in the recipe.
Can I add other ingredients to the fritter mixture?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the fritter mixture, such as diced ham or bacon, chopped herbs, or grated carrot. Just be sure to adjust the amount of cheese and seasonings accordingly.
How do I reheat broccoli and cheese fritters?
You can reheat broccoli and cheese fritters in the oven or microwave. Simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350 F for 5-7 minutes, until crispy and golden brown, or reheat them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, until hot and crispy.
Can I make broccoli and cheese fritters in a deep fryer?
Yes, you can make broccoli and cheese fritters in a deep fryer. Simply heat the oil to 350 F and cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
How long do broccoli and cheese fritters last in the fridge?
Broccoli and cheese fritters can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply store them in an airtight container and reheat them when you're ready to eat them.
Can I freeze broccoli and cheese fritters?
Yes, you can freeze broccoli and cheese fritters. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to eat them.
How do I know when broccoli and cheese fritters are done?
Broccoli and cheese fritters are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through on the inside. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a fritter - if it comes out clean, the fritter is done.

Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add the grated cheese to the bowl with the eggs and mix until well combined.
- Add the chopped broccoli to the bowl with the cheese and mix until the broccoli is evenly coated with the cheese mixture.
- Add the dry ingredients to the bowl with the broccoli and cheese mixture, and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 F.
- Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the fritter mixture into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165 F.
- Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the fritters hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
- Let the fritters cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
- To reheat the fritters, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350 F for 5-7 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.