Crispy Quinoa Cheese Patties

These easy quinoa patties are a weeknight lifesaver in my house whenever I have extra cooked quinoa and a craving for something savory coating the outside with crispy panko turns them into the ultimate snack lunch or light dinner

I first tried this recipe as a way to sneak more whole grains into our meals but now it is a weekly habit and my littlest even helps form the patties

Ingredients

• Cooked quinoa: Provides a nutty base full of plant protein and texture use white or tricolor for best results
• Large eggs: Act as a binder holding everything together fresher eggs help make a tighter patty
• Dried oregano: Brings savory warmth look for bright green leaves without any dustiness
• Garlic powder: Adds mild aromatic flavor go for a fresh container for best taste
• Salt: Rounds out all the flavors I prefer a fine sea salt for even mixing
• Black pepper: Gives a tiny kick try freshly ground for a pop of heat
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds creaminess and pulls the patties together choose whole milk mozzarella for richer flavor
• Red onion: Gives just the right amount of sweetness and bite mince finely for even distribution
• Panko breadcrumbs: Create a crunchy outside Japanese style panko is extra airy for crispiness
• Avocado oil: Is perfect for high heat cooking with a clean mild flavor check the label for a bright color and neutral scent

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Base:

In a medium bowl add your cooked quinoa eggs dried oregano garlic powder salt and black pepper Stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and everything starts to look cohesive this makes sure that every flavor ends up in every bite

Add Cheese and Onion:

Fold the shredded mozzarella and finely minced red onion into the base mixture Stopping to break up any lumps or clusters guarantees that the cheese and onion distribute evenly

Incorporate Breadcrumbs:

Sprinkle in the panko breadcrumbs and give the mix a final stir Let the mixture sit for about five minutes so the breadcrumbs can absorb moisture and help the patties hold their shape

Shape the Patties:

Scoop out about a quarter cup of the mixture for each patty Wet your hands lightly with water to keep the mixture from sticking then gently shape each scoop into a disk repeat until you have around ten patties

Pan Fry to Perfection:

Heat two tablespoons avocado oil in a large non stick skillet over medium heat When the oil shimmers gently lay five patties in the pan Cook for three to four minutes on each side until both are a deep golden brown and crisp Remove these and keep warm

Repeat and Finish:

Pour in the remaining two tablespoons avocado oil and cook the remaining patties in the same way Once done serve them hot for maximum crispiness

Save it

Mozzarella is my favorite part of these patties you get melty pockets with every bite When we made these for a picnic last spring my daughter declared them the best hand food ever and I have to agree

Storage Tips

Store leftover quinoa patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage line the patties on a baking sheet and freeze until firm then transfer to a freezer bag They reheat quickly on a skillet or in the oven which helps maintain their crisp outside

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap mozzarella for cheddar fontina or even a dairy free cheese blend If you prefer a gluten free option choose gluten free panko or finely crushed rice crackers For a different herb profile try Italian seasoning or a pinch of dried thyme

Serving Suggestions

Serve quinoa patties with a dollop of Greek yogurt or your favorite dipping sauce I also love topping them with sliced avocado and a handful of baby greens For a heartier meal put them in a pita pocket with crunchy lettuce and tomato

Cultural Context

These patties borrow from Mediterranean mezze platters where grains cheese and fresh herbs come together as small bites They are versatile enough for breakfast lunch or dinner and remind me of the cozy vegetarian dishes my grandmother used to whip up

Save it

Whip up these quinoa patties and enjoy them hot or cold—they always disappear fast in our home

Common Questions

→ Can I substitute other cheeses for mozzarella?

Yes, cheeses like cheddar, feta, or gouda can replace mozzarella for different flavors and textures.

→ What type of onion works best?

Red onion adds sweetness and color, but yellow or sweet onions can also be used if preferred.

→ Can these patties be baked instead of fried?

Yes, baking at 400°F until golden is a healthier option, though frying yields crispier results.

→ Are these patties freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Cooked patties freeze well. Reheat in an oven or skillet for best texture.

→ Does quinoa need to be cooled before mixing?

Let quinoa cool slightly for best results when combining with eggs and other ingredients.