Irresistible Cheesy Cauliflower Patties Recipe for Cozy Nights

Crispy and golden cheesy cauliflower patties have become my latest obsession in quick weeknight cooking.

cauliflower transforms into something magical when combined with melted cheese and herbs.

Simplicity defines this remarkable dish that comes together faster than ordering takeout.

Nutritious ingredients blend seamlessly to create a delightful meal everyone will adore.

Home cooks often struggle to make vegetables exciting, but these patties solve that challenge completely.

Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, they work perfectly as a side or light main course.

Let me show you how these irresistible patties will become your new favorite kitchen creation.

What You Need for Cauliflower Patties

• Cauliflower Florets: Fresh vegetable base for the patties.
• Cheese: Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps bind the patties.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides structure and crispy texture.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent for the ingredients.

• Salt, Pepper: Enhances overall flavor profile.
• Parsley: Adds fresh herbal notes to the patties.

• Cooking Oil: Helps create a golden, crispy exterior when frying.

How to Make Cheesy Cauliflower Patties

Step 1: Prepare Cauliflower

Cut cauliflower into small florets and cook them in boiling water or steam until they become soft and easily pierced with a fork.

Drain the water completely and let the cauliflower cool down for a few minutes.

Step 2: Mash and Texture

Use a fork or potato masher to break down the cauliflower, keeping some small chunks to provide a nice texture in the final patties.

Step 3: Create Flavor Blend

• Shredded cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Beaten egg
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley

Mix all ingredients thoroughly until they form a cohesive mixture.

Step 4: Shape Patty Rounds

Scoop small portions of the mixture and gently press into flat, circular patties using your hands.

Make sure the edges are compact and smooth.

Step 5: Sizzle and Cook

Heat a nonstick skillet with cooking oil over medium heat.

Carefully place the patties into the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy exterior.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Transfer the cooked patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil and help them maintain their crispness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the hot cauliflower patties and serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce or side dish.

Tips for Crispy, Golden Patties

• Pat cauliflower completely dry after steaming to ensure crispy, golden patties without sogginess.
• Experiment with different cheese types like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or feta for unique taste profiles.
• Substitute breadcrumbs with ground almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for sensitive diets.
• Use an ice cream scoop for consistent, uniform patties that cook evenly and look professionally prepared.
• Chop fresh parsley just before mixing to maximize flavor and aromatic qualities in the patties.

How to Store and Reheat Patties

• Store cooled patties in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Layer parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual patties in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat to 375°F. Arrange patties on baking sheet, bake 10-12 minutes until crispy and heated through. Flip halfway for even warming.
• Warm patties in lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, restoring original crispiness without drying out.

What to Serve with Cauliflower Patties

• Pair with Crisp Sauvignon Blanc: Light, zesty white wine cuts through the cheesy richness, complementing the cauliflower's delicate flavor and enhancing the patties' golden crunch.
• Serve with Tangy Tzatziki Dip: Cool, herbal yogurt sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy patties, adding a creamy Mediterranean twist that brightens every bite.
• Match with Arugula Salad: Peppery greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette offer a sharp, fresh counterpoint to the rich patties, creating a balanced and vibrant plate that excites the palate.
• Complement with Chilled Pinot Grigio: Crisp, clean wine with subtle fruit notes perfectly balances the patties' savory profile, making each mouthful more enjoyable and refreshing.

Creative Combos for Cauliflower Patties

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko for celiac-friendly patties that maintain a crispy exterior.
• Vegan Version: Substitute egg with ground flaxseed mixed with water, use nutritional yeast instead of cheese, creating a plant-based alternative packed with flavor.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or grated parmesan cheese, reducing carbohydrate content while keeping a crunchy texture.
• Spicy Kick Variation: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper to the mixture for those who enjoy a zesty, heat-packed cauliflower patty.

FAQs

• Are these patties gluten-free?

Not completely. The recipe contains breadcrumbs, which typically have gluten. To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

• Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, you can. Thaw the frozen cauliflower completely, drain excess water, and pat dry before mashing to prevent soggy patties.

• What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar, parmesan, or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar work great. Choose a cheese that melts well and provides good flavor.

• How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained and not too watery. The egg and breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients. Let the patties sit for a few minutes before frying to help them hold together.

Why Cheesy Cauliflower Patties Are a Hit

• Perfect for picky eaters, kids, and adults alike, these cheesy cauliflower patties offer a delicious way to enjoy vegetables without feeling like you're eating something healthy.
• Transform a humble cauliflower into a crispy, golden treat that comes together faster than ordering takeout, making it an ideal option for busy families needing a speedy meal.
• Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices to create your own unique version, allowing endless creativity in the kitchen while keeping the core recipe simple and delicious.

Cheesy Cauliflower Patties Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crispy cheesy cauliflower patties blend Mediterranean comfort with nutritious goodness, offering a delightful twist on vegetable sides. Golden-brown edges and melted cheese create an irresistible snack you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups florets)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 large egg

Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cooking Ingredient:

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare cauliflower by steaming or boiling until soft and easily pierced with a fork, then thoroughly drain and allow to cool for a few minutes.
2. Gently crush the florets in a mixing bowl, maintaining some irregular texture for added interest.
3. Incorporate shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, seasoning, and chopped herbs into the cauliflower, stirring until ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Using clean hands, form the mixture into compact, uniform patties approximately 2-3 inches in diameter.
5. Warm a nonstick skillet with a light coating of cooking oil over medium heat, reaching approximately 350°F.
6. Carefully place patties into the heated pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until achieving a crisp, golden-brown exterior.
7. Remove patties and briefly rest on absorbent paper towels to eliminate excess oil.
8. Plate immediately while warm, accompanied by a complementary dipping sauce or fresh garnish.

Notes

• Avoid overcooking cauliflower to maintain a perfect texture and prevent waterlogging the patties.
• Use a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and parmesan for a more complex, rich flavor profile.
• For a gluten-free version, swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Boost protein content by adding quinoa or finely chopped nuts to the mixture for extra nutrition and crunch.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg