Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden, crispy fritter that's packed with cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli - a dish so delicious, even the pickiest eaters will be begging for seconds! These Cheesy Baked Broccoli Fritters are not just a side dish; they're a culinary revolution that transforms humble broccoli into an irresistible, crowd-pleasing treat that's baked to perfection, not fried.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Steam the broccoli florets until tender but still bright green, about 3-4 minutes. Drain thoroughly and allow to cool slightly.
- Chop the steamed broccoli into small, fine pieces using a sharp knife or food processor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, stirring to ensure even seasoning.
- Using clean hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small, compact patties about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Place the fritters on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each patty.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fritters are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, or sour cream.
Tips
- Steam broccoli just until tender to maintain its vibrant green color and prevent mushiness.
- Make sure to drain the broccoli thoroughly to avoid soggy fritters.
- Use a food processor for more uniform chopping of broccoli for consistent texture.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give fritters space to crisp up evenly.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or parmesan for varied flavor profiles.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the fritters with cooking oil before baking.
- Let fritters rest for a few minutes after baking to help them set and become easier to handle.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg
