Broccoli Croquettes are the kind of kitchen magic that somehow disappear from the platter faster than you can set them down. These golden, crispy wonders have a melt-in-your-mouth cheesy center wrapped around tender broccoli, and there’s just the right hint of onion and seasoning in every bite. Whether you’re prepping a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game night or just looking for a fun, veggie-packed snack that even picky eaters will devour, this recipe delivers rich flavor and irresistible texture. Trust me: Broccoli Croquettes belong on the table any time you want a savory treat that feels both nourishing and indulgent!

Broccoli Croquettes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you’ll be surprised by how much flavor and crunch emerge from this humble lineup. Each component in Broccoli Croquettes has a specific job: from binding the croquettes to contributing gooey cheese pulls or a crunch that sings with every bite!

Cooked Broccoli (2 cups, finely chopped): The heart of each croquette, bringing earthiness, color, and subtle sweetness.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully, adding creamy richness and a bold cheesy punch.
Breadcrumbs (½ cup + extra for coating): Act as both binder and crisp coating; use panko for extra crunch!
Large Egg (1): Essential for binding everything together—no falling apart croquettes here!
Grated Parmesan Cheese (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the savory notes and delivers a salty, robust edge.
Finely Chopped Onion (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness and lovely sharpness.
Minced Garlic (1 clove): Brings aromatic depth and a gentle kick.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Wakes up all the flavors without overpowering the croquettes.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Perfect for a mild background heat that complements the broccoli.
Paprika (¼ teaspoon): Balances everything with a subtle warmth and a hint of fragrant spice.
All-purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Locks in moisture and helps bind the mixture for that ideal shape.
Oil for Frying: Neutral oil gives the croquettes their famously crispy exterior—absolutely irresistible!

How to Make Broccoli Croquettes

Step 1: Mix Everything Together

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combine the finely chopped cooked broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and flour. Use a sturdy spatula or your clean hands (the best kitchen tool!) to mix until everything’s thoroughly incorporated. You’re aiming for a thick, cohesive mixture that holds its shape—if it feels a little loose, just sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Shape the Croquettes

Scoop a generous tablespoon of the mixture and use your palms to form it into a small oval or patty shape. Don’t stress about uniformity—homemade charm is part of their appeal! Line them up on a plate or tray as you go. You should get around twelve croquettes from this batch.

Step 3: Bread for Crunch

Pour some extra breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Carefully roll each shaped croquette in the breadcrumbs so they’re fully coated all around. This extra step gives Broccoli Croquettes that delicious signature crunch every time you bite in!

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Heat half an inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping in a pinch of crumbs—they should sizzle right away. Fry the croquettes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Each side will need about 2 to 3 minutes to get perfectly crisp and golden-brown. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate as they finish to drain off excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Pile those golden morsels onto a plate and bring them to the table while they’re still warm. They’re incredible with a favorite dipping sauce—think ranch, aioli, or even a little hot sauce if you like heat. Broccoli Croquettes are best enjoyed right away for maximum crunch!

How to Serve Broccoli Croquettes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives takes both the flavor and presentation up a notch. For extra zing, try a little squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. The vibrant colors and fresh accents make Broccoli Croquettes stand out even more!

Side Dishes

Pair your croquettes with a simple green salad or a tangy slaw for a lunch or light dinner. They also sit perfectly alongside roasted potatoes or a bowl of tomato soup. As an appetizer, serve them with other finger-friendly snacks like mini quiches or veggie platters for a colorful spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the basic platter! Nestle Broccoli Croquettes in a basket lined with parchment for a rustic, sharing-friendly vibe. Skewer them onto toothpicks for easy party bites, or stack on a tiered stand for afternoon tea. They even make a killer veggie burger substitute—just tuck a croquette into a slider bun with lettuce and sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the croquettes cool completely before tucking them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to three days, making them a fantastic make-ahead snack or lunch addition!

Freezing

Want to stash some away for later? Lay cooled Broccoli Croquettes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months—perfect for busy days!

Reheating

To revive their signature crunch, reheat croquettes in a 375°F (190°C) oven or toaster oven for about 10 minutes. The air fryer also works wonders. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the croquettes soggy—crispy texture is what makes them special!

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the broccoli well before chopping and adding to your mix. Squeeze out extra moisture to keep the croquettes from getting too soft.

What dipping sauces go best with Broccoli Croquettes?

Classic ranch, spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or a simple marinara all pair delightfully with the cheesy, savory flavor of these croquettes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your personal favorites!

Are Broccoli Croquettes gluten-free?

As written, the recipe uses all-purpose flour and regular breadcrumbs, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can easily swap in gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make them safe for those avoiding gluten.

Can I bake or air fry these instead of frying?

Definitely. For a lighter version, bake Broccoli Croquettes at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll still get a lovely crunch!

Why are my croquettes falling apart?

This usually happens if there’s too much moisture in the mix or not enough binder. Make sure your broccoli is well-drained, and don’t skip the egg and flour. If needed, add a bit more breadcrumbs for firmness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new way to get everyone excited about veggies, Broccoli Croquettes are your golden ticket. They strike that perfect balance between comforting and elevated, and honestly—they just make people happy! Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a family favorite.

Broccoli Croquettes Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 croquettes 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These delicious broccoli croquettes are crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and make for a perfect appetizer or snack. They are easy to make and a great way to sneak in some veggies for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

2 cups cooked broccoli (finely chopped)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
oil for frying

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Instructions

Prepare Croquette Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and flour. Mix until a thick, cohesive mixture forms.
Shape Croquettes: Shape the mixture into small oval croquettes or patties using your hands or a scoop. Roll each croquette in extra breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
Fry Croquettes: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the croquettes in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Transfer the croquettes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For a healthier option, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American