Broccoli Burgers with Toasted Almonds and Red Onion

Introduction

These broccoli burgers use chopped toasted almonds and red onion for texture, then bake on a sheet pan for about 25 minutes until both sides are golden brown. You get a meatless burger that holds together well enough for buns and works for a simple lunch, light dinner, or make-ahead patties for the week.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 standard eggs
• 240 ml (1 cup) chopped broccoli
• 120 ml (½ cup) chopped toasted almonds
• 190 ml (¾ cup) chopped red onion
• 120 ml (½ cup) seasoned dry bread crumbs
• 80 ml (¼ cup) water
• Salt to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Toasted buns or bread
• Mayonnaise
• Lettuce

Instructions

1. In a bowl, beat eggs.
2. Stir in broccoli, almonds, onion, breadcrumbs and water.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. On an oiled 30×38 cm (12×15-inch) baking sheet, shape mixture into 4 patties, each 2 cm (¾ inch) thick.
5. Bake in 190 °C (375 °F) oven, turning halfway through cooking, until each side is golden brown, about 25 minutes total.
6. Serve on buns with mayonnaise and lettuce.

Variations

• Swap the chopped toasted almonds for chopped walnuts if you want a softer, earthier nut flavor and slightly less crunch.
• Replace the red onion with green onion for a milder bite that lets the broccoli stand out more.
• Use panko in place of seasoned dry bread crumbs if you want a lighter interior and a slightly crisper edge.
• Shape the mixture into 8 smaller patties instead of 4 large ones for sliders; they cook a bit faster and fit better for party servings.
• Serve the patties over salad instead of toasted buns or bread if you want to make the meal lighter and skip the sandwich format.

Tips for Success

• Chop the broccoli finely so the patties hold together and cook through evenly.
• Pack each patty firmly when shaping it on the oiled baking sheet; loose edges are more likely to crumble when you turn them.
• Turn the patties only after the first side is clearly golden brown, or they can stick and break.
• Toast the buns or bread just before serving so they stay firm under the mayonnaise and patties.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cooked patties unassembled in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat in a 190 °C (375 °F) oven for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping once, until hot through. You can also reheat them in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side; the microwave works in short bursts, but the patties will be softer.

FAQ

Can you use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but thaw it first and squeeze out excess moisture before chopping and mixing. If it goes in wet, the patties will be harder to shape and may turn soft.

Why are the patties falling apart?

The broccoli or onion is usually chopped too large, or the mixture was not packed firmly enough on the baking sheet. Let the first side brown before turning so the structure sets.

Can you make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix and refrigerate it for several hours before shaping and baking. If it thickens a bit in the fridge, that usually helps the patties hold together.

What can you use instead of almonds?

Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds work well and keep the same role in the recipe by adding texture and structure. Sunflower seeds give a milder flavor, while walnuts taste richer.