Go Back

Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds Recipe

These Crispy Broccoli Cheese Rounds are golden, crunchy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with broccoli flavour. A perfect appetizer, snack, or kid-friendly side dish that can be fried, baked, or air-fried for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz 340 g fresh broccoli florets
  • 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese finely shredded
  • 1 large egg for the mixture
  • 1 large egg for breading
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs for the mixture
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for coating
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour plus extra for dredging
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives optional
  • Vegetable oil for frying, if using stovetop method

Instructions
 

Prepare the Broccoli

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 1–2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer to ice water, then drain well and squeeze out all excess moisture. Finely chop the broccoli.

Make the Cheese Mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, mayonnaise (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, 1 egg, flour, 1/3 cup panko, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and green onions. Mix until well combined. Chill the mixture for 20–30 minutes for easier shaping.

Shape the Rounds

  • Scoop about 1½–2 tablespoons of mixture and gently flatten into round patties about ½-inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined tray.

Bread the Rounds

  • Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each round in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Cook the Rounds (Choose One Method)

  • Stovetop Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry rounds in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Baking: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place rounds on a baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 12–16 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Cook rounds in a single layer for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serve

  • Transfer to a cooling rack briefly, then serve hot with your favourite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Storage: Store cooked rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
  • Freezing: Uncooked, breaded rounds can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.
  • Variations: Add chopped jalapenos for heat
  • Mix in cooked bacon for smoky flavour
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version
  • Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack