Cheddar Cheese Topped Crispy Cauliflower Patties

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Patties:

• 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into florets

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for crispiness)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

• ½ cup sour cream or ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:

• Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until just tender (about 5 minutes). Drain well and let cool.

• Pulse the cooled cauliflower in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed.

2. Make the Batter:

• In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs.

• Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

• Fold in the chopped cauliflower until combined.

3. Form the Patties:

• Shape the cauliflower mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.

• Coat each patty with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Fry the Patties:

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Fry patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.

• Remove and drain on paper towels.

5. Add Cheese Topping:

• Place the patties on a baking tray.

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each patty.

• Broil or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro.

• Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Q&A

Q1: Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! To make it healthier, bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, then add cheese and bake for another 5 minutes until melted.

Q2: Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely! Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use a flaxseed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and a vegan cheese alternative.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best crispiness.

Q5: Can I add other veggies?
Sure! Finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be mixed into the batter for extra flavor and nutrition.