If you’re looking for a healthy, veggie-packed snack or a light and satisfying meal, these Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters will absolutely win your heart (and your taste buds). Bursting with savory flavor and a satisfying crunch, these fritters are oven-baked to golden perfection—no deep fryer required. Whether you’re trying to sneak more vegetables into your family’s diet or you’re simply craving something wholesome and crispy, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

These fritters are especially perfect for meal-preppers, low-carb lovers, vegetarians, or anyone who loves easy, feel-good food. They make a fantastic side dish, after-school snack, appetizer, or even a light lunch with a crisp salad or creamy dip on the side.

Let’s dig into everything you need to know to make these golden green gems at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy without deep frying: Thanks to a quick bake and a spritz of olive oil, these fritters get golden and crispy without the mess or calories of frying.
Vegetarian-friendly and adaptable: Make them gluten-free or low-carb with one simple swap—use almond flour instead of all-purpose.
Kid-approved: The cheesy, savory flavor and crispy texture make these fritters a hit even with picky eaters.
Meal prep & freezer friendly: Easy to make ahead and store for later, these fritters are perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 large fresh broccoli – florets and stem included, for maximum texture and flavor.
1 large egg – acts as the binder to keep everything together.
½ an onion – adds a bit of sweetness and depth.
2 teaspoons minced garlic – for that irresistible savory aroma.
⅓ cup shaved Parmesan cheese – brings saltiness and a nutty richness.
⅓ cup flour – or substitute with almond flour for a low-carb or gluten-free option.
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil cooking spray – helps the fritters crisp up in the oven.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these crispy fritters effortlessly, gather the following tools:

Food processor
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Two baking sheets
Parchment paper
Measuring spoons and cups
Mixing spoon or spatula
Nonstick frying pan (if opting to pan-fry)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Prepare the Broccoli

Chop your broccoli into florets and trim off the tough bottom portion of the stem. Chop the remaining stem into smaller chunks. Place all the pieces into a food processor and pulse a few times until the broccoli is finely chopped but not mushy.

3. Mix the Fritter Base

Add the egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and flour (or almond flour) into the food processor. Pulse again briefly (around 5 seconds) until the mixture comes together.

4. Season

Remove the blade and stir in the salt and pepper by hand to evenly distribute the seasoning.

5. Form the Fritters

Using your hands or a scoop, form 8–10 fritters and space them evenly on the prepared baking sheets. Ensure they don’t touch each other to allow for crisp edges.

6. Bake Until Crispy

Spray the tops of the fritters lightly with olive oil spray. Bake for 12–15 minutes per side, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Optional: For a more indulgent texture, pan-fry the fritters in a lightly oiled nonstick skillet over medium heat until golden on both sides.

7. Serve

Let the fritters cool slightly before serving. Dip them in ketchup, Greek yogurt, or fat-free sour cream for added flavor.

Recipe Tips & Variations

Cheese swap: Try shredded sharp cheddar, feta, or Gruyère in place of Parmesan.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Boost protein: Stir in some cottage cheese or a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for extra protein and umami flavor.
Add more veggies: Mix in grated carrots, zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture), or chopped spinach.
Low-carb twist: Use almond flour to lower the carb content while keeping that perfect crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Refrigerator

Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Place cooled fritters on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1–2 hours. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

To Reheat

Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These fritters are versatile and pair well with many sides or dips. Here are a few ideas:

Dipping sauces: Greek yogurt with lemon and herbs, tzatziki, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic ranch dressing.
Side dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or quinoa for a balanced plate.
Beverages: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a light beer, or even sparkling water with lemon complements these fritters beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Thaw the broccoli and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before pulsing in the food processor.

Can I make these vegan?

You can! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast.

Why are my fritters falling apart?

Make sure your broccoli mixture isn’t too dry or too wet. The egg and cheese act as binders, so adjust flour or add a bit more cheese if the mixture feels crumbly.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Absolutely. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook fritters for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can finely chop the broccoli and onion by hand and mix everything in a large bowl. It takes a bit more time, but the results are still delicious.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters are the kind of feel-good food you’ll find yourself making again and again. With a quick prep, wholesome ingredients, and a versatile flavor profile, they fit into almost any meal plan. Whether you’re sneaking veggies into your diet or just craving something snackable and satisfying, these fritters check all the boxes.

Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters

Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters: A Wholesome Twist on a Comfort Classic