Broccoli Fritters

Name: Broccoli Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 head broccoli, finely chopped; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

Author: Tessa

Published: July 9, 2025

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Broccoli Fritters have become an absolute staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I crave something quick, tasty, and secretly packed with veggies. I first stumbled upon a similar recipe years ago when trying to find creative ways to get my kids to eat more green things. What started as an experiment quickly turned into a family favorite, proving that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist a crispy, golden fritter!

This recipe transforms simple broccoli into a delightfully versatile dish that works perfectly as a snack, a light lunch, or a fantastic side. It’s truly simple, incredibly satisfying, and I can’t wait to share all my tips and tricks with you.

Why You’ll Love These Broccoli Fritters

These Broccoli Fritters are more than just a recipe; they’re a solution to busy weeknights and a delicious way to sneak in some goodness. You’ll absolutely adore how effortlessly they come together, offering a satisfying crunch and incredible flavor that makes everyone ask for more. They truly hit all the right notes for a fantastic meal or snack!

Quick and Easy Broccoli Fritters

Making these Broccoli Fritters doesn’t require fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making them perfect for any day of the week. With just 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cook time, you can have a fresh, hot batch ready to enjoy in no time. It’s truly convenience meets deliciousness!

Deliciously Versatile

One of my favorite things about these fritters is how incredibly versatile they are. Serve them as a fun appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, pair them with a fresh salad for a light and satisfying lunch, or even enjoy them as a flavorful side dish with dinner. They adapt beautifully to whatever you need!

A Great Way to Enjoy Broccoli

If you’re looking for a clever way to get more vegetables into your diet, or perhaps encourage little ones to eat their greens, these Broccoli Fritters are your secret weapon. The crispy texture and savory flavor make broccoli irresistible, transforming it into a dish that even the most reluctant eaters will enjoy without a fuss.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Broccoli Fritters

The secret to perfect Broccoli Fritters lies in using fresh, quality ingredients. You don’t need a pantry full of exotic spices or specialty items; just a handful of everyday staples come together to create something truly magical. Paying a little attention to the freshness of your broccoli and the quality of your cheese will really shine through in the final flavor. Trust me, simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results!

Gather Your Ingredients for Broccoli Fritters

1 head broccoli, finely chopped
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Broccoli Fritters

Making Broccoli Fritters is a straightforward process, but getting each step just right ensures those perfectly crispy, flavorful results we’re aiming for. I’ll walk you through everything, sharing the little details I’ve learned along the way to make your fritter-making experience smooth and delicious. Pay attention to the texture of your mixture and the temperature of your oil, and you’ll be golden (just like your fritters!).

Preparing Your Broccoli Fritters Mixture

The first step to fantastic Broccoli Fritters is getting your mixture just right. In a large mixing bowl, combine your finely chopped broccoli, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, milk, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Now, here’s a little tip: make sure your broccoli is truly finely chopped. Smaller pieces integrate better into the batter and cook more evenly, preventing any raw bits in your finished fritter. Mix everything thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until all the ingredients are well combined. You want a thick, scoopable batter – not too wet, not too dry. Avoid overmixing once the flour is incorporated; a few lumps are perfectly fine and actually help keep the fritters tender.

Frying Your Golden Broccoli Fritters

Now for the fun part: frying! Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a tiny drop of the batter sizzles immediately upon contact. If it smokes, it’s too hot; if it just sits there, it’s not hot enough. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of your broccoli mixture into the hot oil. Gently flatten each mound slightly with the back of your spoon to form uniform fritters. This helps them cook through evenly and gives them that classic fritter shape. Don’t overcrowd the pan! This is crucial for crispiness. Fry them in batches, leaving enough space between each fritter to allow the oil temperature to remain consistent and for them to brown nicely. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked all the way through. You can press one gently to check that it feels firm.

Draining and Serving Your Broccoli Fritters

Once your Broccoli Fritters are perfectly golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the skillet using a slotted spoon or tongs. Transfer them immediately to a plate lined with paper towels. This step is super important for soaking up any excess oil, ensuring your fritters stay delightfully crispy and not greasy. Serve your fritters warm, right off the pan, for the best flavor and texture. They’re wonderful on their own, but truly shine with a fresh dip or as part of a meal. Don’t be shy – dig in and enjoy your homemade deliciousness!

Tips for Success with Your Broccoli Fritters

Making delicious Broccoli Fritters is all about a few key techniques that elevate them from good to absolutely amazing. These little tips and tricks will ensure your fritters are perfectly crispy, flavorful, and a joy to eat every single time. Trust me, these small adjustments make a world of difference in the final outcome!

Achieving Crispy Broccoli Fritters

The secret to truly crispy Broccoli Fritters lies in two main things: oil temperature and not overcrowding the pan. Ensure your vegetable oil is heated to medium-hot before adding the batter; if it’s not hot enough, the fritters will absorb too much oil and be greasy, not crisp. Also, give each fritter space to breathe in the pan. Frying in batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping too much, which is essential for that coveted golden-brown crunch.

Flavor Variations for Your Broccoli Fritters

While these fritters are fantastic as-is, don’t be afraid to experiment with flavor! I often add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist, or a dash of red pepper flakes if I’m craving a little heat. Grated cheddar cheese can be swapped for Parmesan for a different cheesy note, or you could even mix in some finely grated carrots or corn for extra color and sweetness. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions for Your Broccoli Fritters

Once your Broccoli Fritters are hot and ready, the fun doesn’t stop there! These versatile little bites can be the star of the show or a fantastic supporting act. I love finding new ways to enjoy them, whether it’s a quick snack or part of a more elaborate meal. They truly adapt to whatever your culinary mood calls for.

What to Serve with Broccoli Fritters

My absolute favorite way to enjoy Broccoli Fritters is with a creamy dipping sauce. A simple yogurt-dill dip, a tangy marinara, or even a spicy sriracha mayo works wonders. For a light lunch, pair them with a fresh green salad or a bowl of tomato soup. They also make an excellent side dish for grilled beef or lamb, adding a delightful texture and flavor contrast to your main course.

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Storing and Reheating Broccoli Fritters

Broccoli Fritters are best enjoyed fresh, but sometimes you have leftovers, and that’s perfectly fine! Knowing how to properly store and reheat them means you can enjoy their deliciousness for a few more days without losing too much of that wonderful texture. It’s all about keeping them fresh and bringing back that crispiness.

Keeping Your Broccoli Fritters Fresh

To keep your Broccoli Fritters fresh, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll last beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, I highly recommend using a pan on the stovetop over medium heat, or popping them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until they’re warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that delightful crunch!

Common Questions About Broccoli Fritters

I get a lot of questions about making Broccoli Fritters, and I love helping fellow home cooks troubleshoot or customize their recipes. Here are some of the most common inquiries I receive, along with my best advice to ensure your fritter-making journey is a successful one!

Can I Bake These Broccoli Fritters Instead of Frying?

Yes, you absolutely can bake these Broccoli Fritters if you prefer! While frying gives them that ultimate crispy exterior, baking is a great alternative for a lighter option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet. Place the fritters on the sheet, flattening them slightly, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. They might not be quite as crispy as fried, but they’ll still be delicious!

How Can I Make Broccoli Fritters Gluten-Free?

Making these Broccoli Fritters gluten-free is super simple! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure your blend contains a binder like xanthan gum, or add about 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum to your gluten-free flour if it doesn’t. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’ll still get all that wonderful flavor and texture!

What If My Broccoli Fritters Fall Apart?

If your Broccoli Fritters are falling apart, it usually comes down to one of two things: too much moisture or not enough binder. First, ensure your broccoli is finely chopped and not too wet. You can even pat it dry with a paper towel after chopping if it seems particularly moist. Secondly, check your egg and flour ratios. If the mixture seems too loose, add another tablespoon of flour or even a little extra grated Parmesan cheese, which acts as a binder, until you achieve a firm, scoopable consistency. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the fritters, as cold oil can cause them to disintegrate.

Nutritional Information

Estimated Nutritional Values for Broccoli Fritters

Please remember that the nutritional information provided here is an estimate. Values can vary significantly based on the exact ingredients you use, specific brands, and even the cooking methods. It’s always best to calculate with your own ingredients for precise figures.

Share Your Broccoli Fritters Experience

We Want to Hear From You!

I absolutely love hearing from you! Have you tried these Broccoli Fritters? What wonderful variations did you come up with, or what dipping sauces did you pair them with? Please share your thoughts, tips, and ratings in the comments below!