Cheesy Broccoli Fritters – Easy Vegetarian Dinner or Snack

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You know those days when you’re craving something warm, savory, and satisfying, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen or rely on takeout? That’s exactly where these cheesy broccoli fritters come in. They’re crispy, golden-brown on the outside, and rich with melty cheddar and tender broccoli on the inside. These fritters aren’t just tasty—they’re quick to make, nourishing, and versatile enough for dinner, lunch, or even a midday snack.

If you’ve been hunting for an easy vegetarian recipe that’s both family-friendly and genuinely enjoyable, you’ve landed in the right spot. Whether you’re trying to eat more greens, reduce meat intake, or sneak some veggies into a picky eater’s plate, this dish ticks every box.

Let’s dive into why these fritters might just become your new go-to.

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Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Broccoli Fritters

Not every vegetarian recipe strikes the balance between flavor and function—but this one absolutely does. Here’s what makes these cheesy broccoli fritters stand out:

• 🧀 Cheesy in all the right ways – Cheddar and cottage cheese create a rich, creamy bite.
• 🥦 Loaded with broccoli – A great way to get your daily greens in.
• ⏱ Quick prep and cook – Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
• 🌾 Customizable – Gluten-free? Swap the flour. Low-carb? Use almond flour.
• 👶 Kid-friendly – Even veggie-resistant eaters won’t say no to something this tasty.

You’ll love how approachable this recipe is. There’s no fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, just real food you probably already have at home.

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Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Let’s keep things simple. Below is a breakdown of what goes into these crispy little patties of joy:

📝 Ingredient List

Ingredient	Amount	Details
Broccoli florets	½ large head (7–8 oz / 210g)	Use fresh, not frozen
Salt	½ tsp	Divided
Eggs	2 large	Acts as a binder
Cottage cheese	⅔ cup (5.5 oz / 160g)	Adds moisture and protein
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup (2.5 oz / 75g)	Sharp cheddar is ideal
Chopped chives	2 tbsp	Or sub with green onions
All-purpose or GF flour	½ cup	Use your choice based on preference
Black pepper	¼ tsp	Adds a subtle kick
Olive oil (for cooking)	3 tbsp	Enough for shallow frying

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How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Fritters Step-by-Step

Now for the part where everything comes together. This recipe is straightforward—no complicated steps or special gear required. Here’s how you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

1. Prepare Your Broccoli

• Start by cutting the broccoli into small florets.
• Boil in salted water for just 2 minutes—enough to slightly soften it.
• Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispy fritters!
• Finely chop the broccoli using a knife or pulse a few times in a food processor. Don’t overdo it—you’re looking for small bits, not mush.

2. Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, add:

• Your chopped broccoli
• Eggs
• Cottage cheese
• Shredded cheddar
• Chives
• Salt and black pepper

Mix well until everything is well incorporated. Then stir in the flour until the batter becomes thick enough to scoop and hold its shape.

3. Fry to Golden Perfection

• Heat about 1½ tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is shimmering, drop spoonfuls of batter into the pan.
• Flatten each gently with the back of a spoon.
• Cook for around 3 minutes per side, until golden-brown and firm to the touch.

You’ll likely need to do this in two or three batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan!

4. Drain and Serve

• Transfer cooked fritters onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
• Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice.

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Dips and Sides That Pair Beautifully

These fritters are incredibly versatile. You can dress them up or down depending on the occasion. Try these ideas:

🥣 Dips

• Garlic Aioli
• Spicy Yogurt Sauce
• Tomato Relish
• Lemon Dill Greek Yogurt Dip

🍽️ Side Ideas

• Mixed Green Salad with a light vinaigrette
• Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges
• Couscous or Quinoa Salad
• Soup on the side (e.g., tomato or lentil)

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Make-Ahead Tips & Storage

Let’s face it: you’re not always in the mood to cook from scratch every single time. That’s why make-ahead meals are lifesavers.

To Store

• Keep fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

To Freeze

• Place cooked fritters on a baking sheet to freeze individually.
• Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container.
• Reheat from frozen in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F for 15–18 minutes.

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Health Benefits of Broccoli and Cottage Cheese

It’s not just about taste—there’s a lot going on nutritionally in this dish.

🥦 Broccoli

• Rich in vitamins C and K
• High in fiber
• Contains antioxidants that support your immune system

🧀 Cottage Cheese

• High in protein and low in carbs
• Contains calcium for bone health
• Provides B vitamins for energy production

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Protein: ~10g
• Carbs: ~12g
• Fat: ~15g
• Servings: 4

Want it even lighter? Try using low-fat cheese and reduce the olive oil slightly by using a non-stick pan.

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Easy Variations to Try

One of the best things about this recipe? It’s ultra-customizable.

Flavor Boosts

• Add minced garlic or onion to the mix.
• Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for heat.
• Throw in fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

Other Veggie Combos

• Use cauliflower instead of broccoli.
• Add grated carrot or zucchini (make sure to squeeze out water).

Dietary Substitutions

• Use almond flour for a low-carb version.
• Swap cheddar for feta or mozzarella.
• Use flax eggs to make it egg-free.

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FAQs About Cheesy Broccoli Fritters

Are these fritters healthy?

Yes—especially when pan-fried in minimal oil and packed with nutrient-dense broccoli and protein-rich cottage cheese.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

You can, but it’s best to thaw completely and press out as much moisture as possible. Too much water can ruin the texture.

Why are my fritters falling apart?

The most common cause is too much moisture or not enough binder. Make sure your broccoli is dry, and don’t skip the eggs and flour.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a greased or parchment-lined baking tray for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Conclusion: Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

You don’t need complicated ingredients or professional-level skills to make something delicious. These cheesy broccoli fritters prove that simple, everyday ingredients can come together to create something crispy, cheesy, and seriously satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering, this dish delivers. You’ll find it’s one of those recipes that checks all the boxes: easy, delicious, wholesome, and flexible.

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Ready to Cook? Try It Tonight and Share the Love!

You’ve got the recipe, the tips, and the inspiration. Now it’s time to make your own batch of cheesy broccoli fritters. Whip them up, pair with your favorite dip, and enjoy a guilt-free snack or dinner.

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