Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bake with Fresh Vegetable Salad

These Stuffed Mashed Potato Patties are a delightful combination of creamy mashed potatoes filled with a cheesy broccoli stuffing. Paired with a vibrant vegetable salad, this dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The crispy exterior of the patties complements the creamy, cheesy interior, making them irresistible to both kids and adults alike.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 500g (16.7 oz) potatoes, peeled and boiled
  • 550g (19.4 oz) broccoli, boiled for 2 minutes and finely chopped
  • 40g (1.4 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 70g (2.47 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 55g (1.94 oz) butter, melted
  • 50g (1.76 oz) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Fresh Vegetable Salad:

  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 10-12 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 sweet pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup olives
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 100g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tbsp yogurt
  • 1 pickled cucumber, diced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dill, chopped
  • Salt and grated pepper (to taste)

Directions

For the Patties:

  1. Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth. Add butter, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
  2. In a bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper for the stuffing.
  3. Take a small portion of mashed potatoes, flatten it in your palm, and add a spoonful of the broccoli-cheese mixture in the center.
  4. Fold the mashed potatoes around the stuffing to form a patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
  5. Dust the patties lightly with flour.
  6. Heat a frying pan over medium heat with a little butter or oil. Fry the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

For the Fresh Vegetable Salad:

  1. Combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sweet pepper, olives, onion, and feta cheese in a large bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, mix yogurt, pickled cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, salt, and grated pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the patties with the fresh vegetable salad for a complete meal.
  • Pair with sour cream or a yogurt dip for an added creamy element.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the mashed potatoes are firm but smooth to make shaping the patties easier.
  • Use wet hands to prevent the potatoes from sticking when forming the patties.
  • For extra crispiness, coat the patties in breadcrumbs before frying.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Potatoes provide energy and potassium, while broccoli adds fiber and vitamins C and K.
  • The cheeses contribute calcium and protein, making this dish both nutritious and delicious.
  • The salad adds antioxidants and healthy fats from the olive oil.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-friendly
  • Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 5g

Storage

  • Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in a frying pan or oven to retain crispiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • The crispy patties with creamy, cheesy stuffing are a hit with all ages.
  • It’s versatile and can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
  • The fresh salad adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the patties.
  • Easy to prepare and customize with your favorite fillings and sides.

Conclusion
These Stuffed Mashed Potato Patties with Fresh Vegetable Salad are a delightful combination of crispy, creamy, and fresh flavors. They are perfect for entertaining or a cozy family meal. With their golden crust and cheesy, veggie-packed interior, these patties are a crowd-pleaser. Pair them with the refreshing salad for a balanced and wholesome dish that you’ll want to make again and again!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
    Yes, sweet potatoes work well and add a naturally sweet flavor to the patties.
  2. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
    Absolutely! Bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
  3. What other fillings can I use?
    You can try fillings like cooked mushrooms, spinach, or shredded chicken.
  4. Can I freeze the patties?
    Yes, freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen when needed.
  5. How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
    Make sure the mashed potatoes are firm and not too moist. Adding a bit of flour helps bind them.
  6. Can I make this dish vegan?
    Use plant-based butter, vegan cheese, and almond or soy milk to make it vegan-friendly.
  7. Can I add breadcrumbs to the patties?
    Yes, rolling the patties in breadcrumbs before frying will make them extra crispy.
  8. What can I serve with these patties besides salad?
    Serve with a creamy dip, roasted vegetables, or a side of soup.
  9. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, thaw the broccoli before chopping and using it in the stuffing.
  10. How do I store leftover salad?
    Store the salad without the dressing to keep it fresh. Add the dressing just before serving.