Name: Cauliflower Fritters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 medium head cauliflower (about 4 cups florets); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill; Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Cauliflower Fritters are the ultimate comfort snack or side dish. Each bite bursts with savory flavor, and they’re surprisingly easy to make with simple pantry staples. Whether served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, they’re sure to become a household favorite.

What makes these fritters stand out is their irresistible golden crust that comes from pan-frying, locking in the delicate flavor of cauliflower. Perfect for vegetarians, they’re also an excellent way to sneak more veggies into your meals without anyone noticing!

What Kind of Cauliflower Should I Use?

Fresh cauliflower florets work best for this recipe as they offer great texture and flavor. You can also use frozen cauliflower if that’s what you have on hand—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the fritters soggy.

Ingredients for the Cauliflower Fritters

Cauliflower: The star ingredient, bringing a mild, nutty flavor and tender bite.
Eggs: Help bind the mixture together, ensuring the fritters hold their shape.
Flour: Provides structure and absorbs moisture, contributing to the crispy edges.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick that enhances the cauliflower.
Garlic: Offers a punch of flavor, making the fritters irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and brighten the taste.
Chopped Fresh Herbs (like parsley or dill): Add freshness and a pop of color.
Oil for Frying: A neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil creates that beautiful golden crust.

How To Make the Cauliflower Fritters

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

Start by steaming or boiling the cauliflower florets until they’re fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook—they should be soft but not mushy. Once done, let them cool slightly and then roughly chop or mash them into small pieces.

Step 2: Make the Fritter Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the chopped cauliflower with eggs, flour, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Mix everything until well combined; the mixture should hold together but still be slightly loose.

Step 3: Shape the Fritters

Scoop small portions of the mixture and gently form them into patties using your hands. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more flour; if too dry, a splash of water or an extra egg will help.

Step 4: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the fritters in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until they’re crisp and deeply golden.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream.

Serving and Storing Cauliflower Fritters

Cauliflower Fritters are best enjoyed fresh and hot, right out of the skillet. They pair beautifully with a drizzle of lemon juice, a spoonful of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. For extra flair, try serving them with tzatziki or spicy aioli.

To store leftovers, let the fritters cool completely, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness—microwaving is not recommended as it softens the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or chickpea flour for a delicious alternative.

Can I bake the fritters instead of frying?

Absolutely. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with a little oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I keep the fritters from falling apart?

Make sure the cauliflower is not too wet, and don’t skip the eggs—they’re key to binding everything together.

Can I freeze cauliflower fritters?

Yes, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

What dips go well with these?

Sour cream, yogurt-based dips, or spicy sauces like sriracha mayo are all fantastic options.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you love these cauliflower fritters, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions for a comforting, melty side.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a hearty dinner.
• Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken if you’re craving something crunchy and savory.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini for a creamy, indulgent pasta.
• Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies for a veggie-packed side dish.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra cheese or spice it up with chili flakes? Did you try baking instead of frying?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!