Golden-brown, cheesy cauliflower patties packed with fresh spinach—these Cheesy Spinach Cauliflower Patties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re ideal as a low-carb snack, a savory side dish, or even as a vegetarian main when served with a salad or dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These patties are a wholesome and satisfying alternative to traditional starchy sides or meat-based patties. Made with cauliflower, spinach, and two types of cheese, they offer a great balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re eating low-carb, looking to add more vegetables to your meals, or need a meal prep option, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and delicious hot or cold.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cauliflower florets (steamed and mashed)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen and thawed)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for greasing

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease with olive oil.
2. Steam cauliflower florets until tender. Let cool slightly, then mash or rice them using a fork or food processor.
3. Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy patties.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape them into flat patties. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 patties, serving 3 to 4 people as a side dish or snack.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese mix: Swap mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add herbs: Include fresh parsley, dill, or chives for added freshness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika for mild heat.
• Low-fat option: Use part-skim mozzarella and reduce Parmesan slightly to lighten the fat content.
• Pan-fried version: Fry the patties in a nonstick skillet with a little oil instead of baking for a crisper exterior.

storage/reheating

• To store: Place leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To reheat: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain crispness.
• To freeze: Freeze cooked patties between layers of parchment in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to drain and squeeze it thoroughly after steaming to remove excess moisture.

Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare and refrigerate the uncooked mixture for up to 24 hours, or bake and reheat them later.

Are these patties gluten-free?

Yes, they contain no breadcrumbs or flour, making them naturally gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to the mix?

Yes, finely grated zucchini or carrots work well. Just be sure to remove moisture before mixing.

What sauce pairs well with these patties?

Yogurt-based dips, marinara sauce, or a simple sour cream and herb dip complement them nicely.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, cook them at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, their mild flavor and cheesy texture make them kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in vegetables.

Can I use egg substitutes?

Yes, a flax egg or commercial egg replacer can be used to make the recipe egg-free.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

Be sure to remove excess moisture from the cauliflower and spinach, and use the egg as a binder.

Can I make mini versions for appetizers?

Yes, just shape smaller patties and reduce the baking time slightly. They’re great for party platters.

Conclusion

Cheesy Spinach Cauliflower Patties are a versatile and flavorful option for anyone seeking a healthier alternative to traditional sides or snacks. With their crisp edges and cheesy, veggie-packed centers, they offer comfort and nutrition in one bite. Whether you’re serving them fresh from the oven or prepping them in advance, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.

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