Cheesy Cauliflower Patties Recipe
These Cheesy Cauliflower Patties are a perfect low-carb and keto-friendly alternative to traditional potato pancakes. They’re packed with flavor, combining the subtle sweetness of cauliflower with the rich, cheesy goodness of cheddar and Parmesan. The added crunch from the pork rinds brings the texture to life, making this dish a delightful side or even a stand-alone meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup ground plain pork rinds (or almond flour as a substitute)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
Begin by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. You want to ensure the pieces are small enough to cook evenly and mash easily. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then carefully add the cauliflower florets. Cook the cauliflower for about 10 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Make sure not to overcook, as it may become too watery and affect the texture of your patties.
2. Drain and Mash:
Once the cauliflower is tender, drain it thoroughly in a colander. It’s essential to let it sit for a few minutes to ensure excess water has drained out. Afterward, mash the cauliflower in a large mixing bowl while it’s still warm. You can use a potato masher or fork, leaving a bit of texture to avoid a mushy consistency.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
To the mashed cauliflower, add the beaten eggs, grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, ground pork rinds (which act as the binder), cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should have a firm consistency that holds its shape when formed into patties.
4. Form the Patties:
Take a small handful of the cauliflower mixture and shape it into patties, approximately 3 inches across. You can adjust the size depending on your preference. Place them on a plate or baking sheet while you form the rest of the patties. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a bit more pork rinds or cheese for extra firmness.
5. Cook the Patties:
Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat and coat the bottom with olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cauliflower patties onto the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy. You can adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
6. Keep Warm:
As each batch of patties is done, place them in a preheated oven at 200°F to keep warm while you finish cooking the remaining patties.
7. Serve:
Serve these delicious patties warm, topped with sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, or even a low-carb dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo. They make a perfect snack, side dish, or light meal.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid Excess Moisture: If your cauliflower feels too watery after mashing, you can press it gently with a paper towel or cheesecloth to remove extra moisture. This will help the patties hold together better and give them a crispier texture.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella or pepper jack would add a different flavor profile. Parmesan gives a sharp, nutty taste, but Asiago or Romano can work well, too.
- Make Ahead: These patties can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or air fryer. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen and reheated for easy meal prep.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Patty)
- Calories: 125 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 8g
Nutritional Breakdown (Entire Recipe):
- Calories: 625 kcal
- Total Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 17.5g
- Cholesterol: 350mg
- Sodium: 1400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Net Carbs: 10g
- Protein: 40g
Nutrition Tips:
- Low Carb and Keto-Friendly: This dish is great for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, as it contains minimal net carbs. The ground pork rinds provide an excellent crunchy texture while being carb-free.
- Good Protein Source: Each patty contains about 8g of protein, largely from the eggs, cheese, and pork rinds, which helps make this a satiating meal or side dish.
- Boosting Fiber: Cauliflower is naturally high in fiber, which helps to support digestive health and can aid in maintaining a healthy gut. You can also sprinkle flaxseeds or chia seeds into the mixture to increase the fiber content.
These Cheesy Cauliflower Patties offer a versatile, satisfying option for anyone looking to enjoy a low-carb, cheesy treat. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or paired with a salad, they’re sure to become a new favorite!