If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, veggie-packed dish that’s as comforting as it is nutritious, you have to try this Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Cauliflower Patties Recipe. These patties deliver a perfect balance: tender cauliflower mingling with fresh spinach, all wrapped up in melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The blend creates patties that are wonderfully savory and irresistibly satisfying, making them a fantastic addition to your meal rotation, whether as a hearty appetizer, a tasty side, or even a meatless main dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this recipe right means starting with ingredients that are simple but essential, each bringing its own unique flavor, texture, or color to the party. From the creamy cheeses contributing richness to the fresh spinach adding vibrant green flecks, every item plays a key role in making these cauliflower patties shine.
- 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups florets): The star veggie, providing a mild flavor and tender base once steamed and crumbled.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Adds color, freshness, and a lovely leafy texture to brighten every bite.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the perfect binder to hold all ingredients together into patties.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings gooey, melty goodness that’s simply irresistible.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty kick that elevates the flavor complexity.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Helps absorb moisture and firm up the patties for better cooking texture.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle but wonderful savory aroma and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the mix.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right gentle heat to complement the other tastes.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A herb blend that ties everything together with a classic Mediterranean flair.
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking): Essential for creating those golden, crispy patties in the pan.
How to Make Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Cauliflower Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower
Start by cutting your cauliflower into florets and steaming or boiling them until they become very tender—about 8 to 10 minutes. It’s important to drain them well and let them cool slightly before moving on. Then, mash the cauliflower or pulse it in a food processor until it’s finely crumbled. Wrapping this mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing out as much moisture as possible is crucial to avoid soggy patties.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, bring together the finely crumbled cauliflower, chopped spinach, egg, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything thoroughly until you get a uniform, sticky mixture that will hold its shape well when formed into patties.
Step 3: Form the Patties
This is the fun, hands-on part—shape the mixture into small patties around the size of 2 tablespoons each. Aim for consistent sizes so they cook evenly and look inviting once plated.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat your olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each side turns beautifully golden brown and the patties are cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan—giving them room means better browning and crispiness. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
How to Serve Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Cauliflower Patties Recipe
Garnishes
These patties are delightful enough on their own, but a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light drizzle of tangy lemon yogurt sauce can add a refreshing touch. A dusting of extra Parmesan also never hurts if you want to amp up the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with a crisp mixed greens salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple tomato salsa to add contrasting textures and flavors. They also complement grain bowls beautifully if you’re serving a more substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the patties stacked with layers of roasted red peppers and a dollop of herbed cream cheese between them. Alternatively, turn them into sliders with mini buns and your favorite condiments for a tasty party appetizer that stands out.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy these healthy bites later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When frozen, they’ll keep well for up to 2 months and can be cooked straight from frozen.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to revive their crispy exterior or pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess, so you get that lovely crunch with every bite.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out excess moisture so your patties don’t become watery. The flavor will be just as wonderful.
Are these patties gluten-free?
They can be! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones and you have a delicious gluten-free option perfect for many diets.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Bake them at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they brown nicely on both sides.
How many patties does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 10 to 12 patties, depending on the size you make them, perfect for sharing or meal prepping.
Can these patties be served as a main course?
Definitely! When paired with a hearty side or salad, these spinach and cheese stuffed cauliflower patties make a satisfying, meatless main meal that’s both nutritious and filling.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Cauliflower Patties Recipe enough for anyone looking to add vibrant, wholesome dishes to their kitchen repertoire. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, tastes incredible, and brings that warm homemade feeling to your table every time you serve it. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy cauliflower and spinach at their best.
Print
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Cauliflower Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 patties 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Cauliflower Patties are a delicious and healthy appetizer or side dish featuring tender cauliflower mixed with fresh spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Lightly pan-fried to golden perfection, they offer a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional patties. Perfect as a snack or meatless main course, they’re easy to prepare and can also be baked for a lighter option.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups florets)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Dairy & Eggs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Others
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam or boil until very tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly.
- Mash and Drain Cauliflower: Mash the cooked cauliflower or pulse it in a food processor until finely crumbled. Transfer to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to ensure the patties hold together.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed cauliflower, chopped spinach, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into small patties, approximately 2 tablespoons each, to make about 10–12 patties.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove patties from skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.
Notes
- These patties can alternatively be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Great as a side dish, snack, or meatless main course.
- You can use frozen spinach—just thaw completely and squeeze out the moisture before adding to the mixture to avoid sogginess.
- To make gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
