Broccoli Cheddar Fritters

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy your veggies, these Broccoli Cheddar Fritters are just what you need! Packed with flavor and a delightful crunch, these fritters are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish for your main meal. Made with wholesome ingredients like quinoa and fresh broccoli, they make for a nutritious option that even the pickiest eaters will love. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

These Broccoli Cheddar Fritters stand out for several reasons. First, they combine the nutritious benefits of quinoa and broccoli into a crispy, cheesy bite that’s incredibly satisfying. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that balances beautifully with the earthy taste of the quinoa and the freshness of the broccoli. Not to mention, these fritters are baked or pan-fried to perfection, giving you that sought-after crispiness without excessive oil. They’re not just delicious; they’re also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

What’s in the Bowl

To create these scrumptious Broccoli Cheddar Fritters, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and cooled quinoa
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for frying

Equipment at a Glance

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary equipment:

• Mixing bowl – for combining the ingredients.
• Skillet or frying pan – for cooking the fritters.
• Spatula – for flipping the fritters.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Steamer or pot – for steaming the broccoli.
• Fork – for mashing and mixing the ingredients.

How to Prepare Broccoli Cheddar Fritters

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Make sure your quinoa is cooked and cooled. If you haven’t cooked it yet, rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

While the quinoa is cooking, steam your broccoli florets until they are tender but still vibrant green, about 3-5 minutes. Let them cool slightly before chopping them into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chopped broccoli, beaten eggs, panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Form the Fritters

Using your hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture and form it into patties about 2-3 inches in diameter. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, placing the formed fritters on a plate.

Step 5: Cook the Fritters

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray. Once hot, place a few fritters in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side or until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side. Repeat with the remaining fritters.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is!

What to Use Instead

If you’re missing any ingredients or want to customize the fritters, here are some alternatives you can use:

• Quinoa: Brown rice or cooked lentils can be used in place of quinoa.
• Broccoli: Cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach are great substitutes for broccoli.
• Cheddar cheese: Any type of shredded cheese such as mozzarella or gouda will work beautifully.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used if you don’t have panko on hand.
• Green onions: Chopped onions or shallots can be used for a different flavor profile.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure that your Broccoli Cheddar Fritters turn out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Not letting the quinoa cool: Warm quinoa can make the mixture too mushy.
• Overcrowding the pan: This can lead to steaming rather than frying, resulting in soggy fritters.
• Not pressing the fritters down: This helps them cook evenly and get a nice crispy exterior.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors!

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Broccoli Cheddar Fritters can easily be made ahead of time. Here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Place cooked fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze uncooked fritters on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheat: To reheat, place fritters in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just steam it according to the package instructions and chop it up before adding it to the mixture.

How can I make these fritters spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick!

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the fritters on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauces go well with these fritters?

These fritters pair well with ranch dressing, tzatziki sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a delightful contrast of flavors!

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Bring It Home

Now that you have the recipe for these irresistible Broccoli Cheddar Fritters, it’s time to get cooking! With their crispy exterior, cheesy interior, and a delightful blend of flavors, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve them as a main dish or a side, they’re a wonderful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals without sacrificing taste. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the process of making these delightful fritters together! You’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear from the table.

These Broccoli Cheddar Fritters are not just a meal; they are an experience. With every bite, you’ll taste the love and care that goes into making them. Enjoy every crunchy, cheesy morsel, and feel good knowing you’ve created something truly special!