Crispy Broccoli Cheddar Fries (Oven-Baked)

These broccoli cheddar fries are made from finely grated broccoli, shredded cheddar, egg and ranch seasoning, shaped into little sticks and baked until the edges are golden and crisp.

There's no flour or potato involved, and the mixture comes together in one bowl. They work as a side next to grilled chicken or burgers, or as a snack with a dip.

The whole thing takes about 30 minutes, and the optional Parmesan adds extra cheesy flavor.

For UK and Australian readers, use a baking tray lined with baking parchment (or baking paper). A box grater works perfectly for the broccoli. If ranch seasoning mix isn't available, substitute with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of dried dill.

Why You'll Love Them

• Only a few simple ingredients
• Cheesy and flavorful with ranch seasoning
• Easy to make in the oven
• Great with your favorite low-carb-style dipping sauce

Prep & Cooking

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2 to 3

Ingredients

• Broccoli, finely grated — 1 cup (use a knife or box grater)
• Shredded cheddar cheese — 1 cup
• Large egg — 1
• Ranch seasoning (dry mix) — 1 tbsp
• Grated Parmesan cheese — ½ cup, optional for extra cheesy flavor
• Ranch dressing — for serving

Equipment

• Baking sheet (baking tray)
• Parchment paper (baking paper)
• Box grater or knife
• Mixing bowl
• Clean kitchen towel (tea towel) or paper towel

Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the baking sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2 — Grate the broccoli

Finely grate the broccoli. If it feels wet, gently squeeze out some excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

Pro Tip: Squeezing the excess water out is crucial so the fries hold together and crisp up in the oven instead of steaming.

Step 3 — Mix the ingredients

In a bowl, combine the broccoli, cheddar, egg, ranch seasoning and Parmesan (if using). Mix until everything is evenly combined. You can also use your hands to press the mixture together.

Step 4 — Shape the fries

Scoop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape them into small fry-like sticks. Keep them fairly compact and about ½-inch thick so they hold together while baking.

Step 5 — Bake

Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the fries feel firm. Watch carefully towards the end so they don't burn.

Step 6 — Cool and serve

Let them cool for 2 to 3 minutes before carefully removing them from the parchment. Serve warm with ranch dressing or your favorite low-carb dip.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Broccoli: Provides fiber and a variety of micronutrients while adding flavor and texture.
• Cheddar: Adds protein, calcium and rich cheesy flavor.
• Egg: Acts as the binder to hold the grated broccoli and melting cheese together.

Easy Swaps

• Cheese: Use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder, stretchier cheese.
• Parmesan: Highly recommended to add it for extra crispiness and savory flavor.
• Seasoning: Try garlic powder or Italian seasoning instead of ranch seasoning if you can't find the dry mix.
• Dip: Serve with a Greek-yogurt ranch dip made with Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning and a splash of lemon juice.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (about 190°C) until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave, since they turn soggy.

Serving Ideas

• Alongside grilled chicken or burgers as a side dish.
• As a snack with ranch, a garlic yogurt dip or a low-carb cheese dip.

Recipe FAQs

Skip the deep fryer and grab a box grater. These broccoli cheddar fries hit the spot when you want something cheesy, crispy, and incredibly easy to throw together on a single baking sheet.