Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes

Name: Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for greasing baking sheet

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes for a delicious and healthy meal option. The combination of steamed broccoli and creamy cheddar comes together beautifully in this recipe. I enjoy experimenting with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavors. Plus, they make a fantastic addition to any meal or can be served alone as a tasty snack. In around 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that is not only nutritious but also satisfying and full of flavor!

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:55:19.267Z

My journey with these Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes started when I was looking for a way to encourage my kids to eat more veggies. I wanted to create a dish that was fun, flavorful, and easy to make. After several attempts, I discovered that baking, rather than frying, kept the cakes light while retaining a rich taste.

Another technique that made a huge difference was letting the mixture sit for a few minutes before shaping it into cakes. This allowed the ingredients to meld and made the cakes hold their shape during baking. Trust me, once you try these, you'll find they disappear quickly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious flavor combination of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar
Baked rather than fried for a healthier option
Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these veggie cakes is undoubtedly the steamed broccoli. It not only provides a vibrant color and fresh flavor, but its nutritional benefits are immense. Rich in vitamins K and C, along with fiber, broccoli helps create a wholesome meal option. When chopping the broccoli, ensure the pieces are small enough to distribute evenly throughout the cake, preventing any raw bites that could ruin the texture.

Cheddar cheese plays a supporting role by adding creaminess and depth of flavor. Opt for sharp cheddar for a bolder taste that contrasts beautifully with the mildness of the broccoli. If you're looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cheddar can be used without compromising the cake's structure. Feel free to sprinkle in some extra cheese on top before baking for a gooey finish.

Perfecting the Technique

When mixing your ingredients, the key is to avoid over-mixing the mixture. This helps maintain the cakes’ texture, ensuring they remain tender rather than tough. I recommend using a spatula for the initial mix to combine dry and wet ingredients gently, then finish with your hands to form the patties. This method gives better control over the consistency and allows you to shape the cakes just right.

Shaping the patties can also be versatile. If you prefer larger cakes, shaping them into about 3-inch rounds will yield fewer portions but a heartier serving. Conversely, mini cakes are great for appetizers and can be shaped into 1.5-inch rounds. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly; smaller cakes typically take around 12 minutes while the larger ones may need a couple of extra minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for greasing baking sheet

Make sure to prep your veggies and cheese ahead of time for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your veggie cakes:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet with olive oil.

Mix ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.

Shape the cakes

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties and place them on the greased baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Serve

Allow the veggie cakes to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

These cakes are best served fresh, but you can also store leftovers in the fridge for later.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding diced onions or bell peppers to the mix. You can also serve the cakes with a dipping sauce or yogurt for added taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Baked Broccoli Cheddar Veggie Cakes can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Once they have cooled, place them in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked patties. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet first for about an hour before transferring to a zip-top bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer; just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

When reheating, the best method is to use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) to restore the crispiness of the crust. Heat for approximately 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is an option for a quicker fix, but be aware that this may result in a softer texture.

Variation Ideas

Experimenting with herbs and spices can elevate the flavor of these veggie cakes. Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill to bring a fresh burst of flavor. For those who enjoy a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it just the right amount of heat.

You can also swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like finely grated carrots or zucchini, which work well while still holding the form when baked. Just be sure to remove excess moisture from vegetables like zucchini to prevent the cakes from becoming soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

→ How can I make these vegan?

You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan cheese instead of cheddar.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Absolutely! You can shape the cakes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with these veggie cakes?

They pair well with a fresh salad, yogurt sauce, or a simple dipping sauce like ranch.