Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Rice Balls
These crispy bites are made with cauliflower rice, breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese (or vegan cheese), air-fried to golden perfection. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with Mediterranean flavors. Serve them with marinara, tzatziki, or a yogurt-dill dip for a healthy and satisfying treat.
⏱ Time
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time (air fryer): 12–15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
3 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or thawed frozen)
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular; use gluten-free if needed)
½ cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for melty center)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
2 large eggs (or 2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water for vegan)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Olive oil spray
Instruction
1. Prepare cauliflower rice
If using fresh cauliflower, pulse florets in a food processor until rice-like.
Cook in microwave or steam for 5 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture with a towel.
2. Mix filling
In a bowl, combine cauliflower rice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, eggs, salt, and pepper.
If using mozzarella, you can tuck a little cube inside each ball for a melty surprise.
3. Shape balls
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and roll into a ball.
Place on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Air fry
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray balls with olive oil.
Air fry in batches for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
5. Serve
Enjoy hot with marinara, garlic aioli, or yogurt-herb dip.
Notes & Tips
Extra crispy: Roll balls lightly in panko before air frying.
Cheese swap: Try feta or pecorino for stronger Mediterranean flavor.
Make ahead: Shape balls, freeze on a tray, then air fry straight from frozen (add 3–4 minutes).
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes — bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Can I make them vegan?
Yes — use flax eggs and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Q: Do they store well?
Best eaten fresh, but you can refrigerate 2–3 days and re-crisp in air fryer.
Nutrition information
Calories: 140
Protein: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g