Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes

Name: Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of finely chopped broccoli; 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 clove of garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon of paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating delicious and nutritious meals, and these Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes are a testament to that passion. Packed with wholesome broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, these cakes make for a perfect snack or a satisfying side dish. Each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a family favorite. Whether you're looking for a vegetarian option or simply want to incorporate more veggies into your diet, these cakes are a win-win. Plus, they're baked, not fried, so I can enjoy them guilt-free!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:16:19.319Z

When I first experimented with Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes, I was on a mission to find a way to make vegetables more appealing to my kids. After several trials, I discovered that adding a touch of garlic powder and a sprinkle of paprika really elevates the flavors. Not only did it work wonders for their taste buds, but it also made me feel great knowing they were eating their greens!

One crucial tip I learned is to make sure the broccoli is chopped finely; this ensures even cooking and a better texture. I've even tried adding in some breadcrumbs for added crunch, which has become a hit in our household. These cakes are a versatile option that pairs well with dipping sauces, too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious balance of veggies and cheese
Easy to prepare with common ingredients
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside

      

Perfecting the Texture

Getting the right texture for your Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes is essential for a delightful eating experience. Make sure to steam the broccoli just until tender but still bright green. Overcooking can lead to a mushy cake, compromising its crispy exterior. Aim for about 3-4 minutes of steaming, then let the broccoli cool briefly to help it hold its shape when mixed.

When mixing your ingredients, don't rush. I recommend mixing until the ingredients are just combined to avoid over-mixing, which can make the cakes dense. The freshness of the broccoli should still shine through, so leave a bit of visible greenery in the final mixture. Proper mixing is key to ensuring that every bite is evenly flavored and textured.

Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in these cakes plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and structure. The cheddar cheese not only adds a rich, savory taste but also helps bind the ingredients together when melted. Choosing a sharp cheddar can elevate the flavor profile, so consider using aged cheese for a deeper taste if desired.

Breadcrumbs are vital for establishing the right consistency. They absorb moisture and help create a crispy crust during baking. If you’re gluten-free, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free varieties or use crushed rice cakes instead. This substitution keeps the texture intact while catering to dietary restrictions.

Serving and Variations

These veggie cakes can be served in numerous ways! Consider pairing them with a tangy yogurt or sour cream dip to complement the flavors. A light salad or roasted vegetables on the side can round out the meal beautifully, adding freshness and crunch.

For those wanting to introduce new flavors, experiment by adding spices like cumin or nutritional yeast for an umami boost. You could also incorporate other vegetables, such as finely grated carrots or zucchini, which can be mixed in without compromising the original flavor. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture from these additions before mixing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Main Ingredients

2 cups of finely chopped broccoli
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 clove of garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of olive oil

Make sure to have everything ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your veggie cakes:

Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam the chopped broccoli until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Let it cool.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Cakes

Using your hands, form the mixture into patties. Place them on a greased baking sheet.

Bake

Drizzle a little olive oil on top of the cakes. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these veggie cakes by adding other vegetables such as carrots or corn. You can also experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes are great for meal prep! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together. Just make sure to store the mix in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

If you're short on time during the week, you can also shape the cakes and freeze them prior to baking. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen; just add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover veggie cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure they are placed in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture. When you're ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revitalize their crispy edges without drying them out.

For longer storage, these cakes can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to layer parchment paper between the cakes to prevent sticking. Reheat frozen cakes in the oven on a baking sheet until heated through, which typically takes 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C), ensuring they regain their delightful crispiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the veggie cakes?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just store them in an airtight container and bake straight from the freezer when you are ready to enjoy!

→ What can I serve with broccoli cheddar cakes?

They pair well with a side salad, or can be served with a dipping sauce like ranch or a garlic aioli.

→ How do I make them vegan?

You can replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based cheese to make these cakes vegan.

→ Can I bake them in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes in advance and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.