These Crispy Cauliflower Patties are a delicious way to turn a humble vegetable into a golden, savory delight. Packed with flavor, lightly pan-fried until perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re perfect as a meatless main, healthy side, or even a fun snack. Best of all, they’re easy to make and freezer-friendly!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy & Golden – The perfect texture in every bite.
Budget-Friendly – Simple, affordable ingredients.
Naturally Vegetarian – Plant-powered and protein-rich.
Meal Prep Friendly – Make a batch and freeze for later.
Customizable – Add herbs, spices, or cheese for your own twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 small head cauliflower (about 3 cups florets)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika or chili flakes (optional)
- Oil for frying (olive, avocado, or vegetable)
Tools You’ll Need
- Food processor or box grater
- Large mixing bowl
- Frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Paper towels (for draining)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
- Cut cauliflower into small florets and pulse in a food processor until finely grated.
- Alternatively, grate by hand using a box grater.
- Steam or microwave for 4–5 minutes until tender, then let cool slightly.
- Place in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled cauliflower, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic, onion, herbs, and spices.
6. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should hold together when pressed—if not, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
7. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and form into small, flat patties.
8. Place them on a parchment-lined tray while you finish the batch.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Patties
9. Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
10. Cook patties in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
11. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve Warm
12. Garnish with extra herbs or a dollop of yogurt or dip, and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Patties
Drain Cauliflower Well – Too much moisture prevents crisping.
Don’t Crowd the Pan – Cook in batches for best results.
Use Panko – For extra crunch, especially on the outside.
Spice it Up – Add cumin, curry powder, or smoked paprika.
Make it Cheesy – Fold in shredded mozzarella or feta.
Serving Suggestions
With Dip – Try tzatziki, hummus, or garlic yogurt sauce.
On a Salad – Serve on mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette.
As a Burger – Stack in a bun with lettuce and tomato.
As a Side – Pair with grilled meats or veggie mains.
For Breakfast – Top with a poached egg and hot sauce.
How to Store & Reheat
Store:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze:
Place cooled patties on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Lasts up to 2 months.
Reheat:
Pan – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm and crispy.
Oven – 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Air Fryer – 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes.
Microwave not recommended—it softens the crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Are these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and you’re good to go.
3. Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Absolutely—thaw and squeeze out moisture before using.
4. Can I make these vegan?
Yes—replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Cauliflower Patties are a delicious way to enjoy vegetables with texture, flavor, and fun. Whether you’re making them for lunchboxes, dinner sides, or party snacks, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Try them out and let me know how you dress them up—I’d love to see your creations!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: International – Vegetarian
Nutritional Information (Per Patty, 12 patties):
Calories: 80 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 7g | Fat: 4g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 120mg
Crispy Cauliflower Patties
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
These Crispy Cauliflower Patties are a delicious way to turn a humble vegetable into a golden, savory delight. Packed with flavor, lightly pan-fried until perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re perfect as a meatless main, healthy side, or even a fun snack. Best of all, they’re easy to make and freezer-friendly!
Looking for more wholesome, plant-based recipes that satisfy? Subscribe now and get new favorites sent straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
-
1 small head cauliflower (about 3 cups florets)
-
2 large eggs
-
½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
-
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
¼ small onion, finely chopped
-
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
-
½ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
¼ tsp paprika or chili flakes (optional)
-
Oil for frying (olive, avocado, or vegetable)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
-
Cut cauliflower into small florets and pulse in a food processor until finely grated.
-
Alternatively, grate by hand using a box grater.
-
Steam or microwave for 4–5 minutes until tender, then let cool slightly.
-
Place in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled cauliflower, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic, onion, herbs, and spices.
6. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should hold together when pressed—if not, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
7. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and form into small, flat patties.
8. Place them on a parchment-lined tray while you finish the batch.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Patties
9. Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
10. Cook patties in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
11. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve Warm
12. Garnish with extra herbs or a dollop of yogurt or dip, and serve immediately.
Notes
Drain Cauliflower Well – Too much moisture prevents crisping.
Don’t Crowd the Pan – Cook in batches for best results.
Use Panko – For extra crunch, especially on the outside.
Spice it Up – Add cumin, curry powder, or smoked paprika.
Make it Cheesy – Fold in shredded mozzarella or feta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: International – Vegetarian
