If you’re looking for a healthy and satisfying way to enjoy vegetables, look no further than these Baked Cauliflower Patties with Garlic-Yogurt Sauce. This recipe transforms humble cauliflower into golden-brown, oven-baked patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re seasoned with aromatic spices, fresh dill, and just the right amount of heat—perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious yet crave-worthy meal. The tangy, creamy Greek yogurt sauce with garlic brings the dish together with a refreshing finish.
Made with simple pantry staples and no frying involved, these patties are perfect for busy weeknights, vegetarian lunches, and even meal prep. Plus, they’re naturally low in carbs, high in fiber, and gluten-free if you choose appropriate flour and coating options.
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: Makes 10–12 patties
Ingredients
For the Cauliflower Patties:
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800g cauliflower, chopped into florets
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2 large eggs
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60 ml milk
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp pepper mixture (or freshly ground black pepper)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp dried garlic
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½ tsp dried onion
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Optional: chopped hot pepper or chili flakes
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1 small bunch fresh dill, finely chopped
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4–5 tablespoons wheat flour
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1 cup crushed sugar-free cornflakes or breadcrumbs
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Olive oil for brushing
For the Garlic-Yogurt Sauce:
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½ cup Greek yogurt
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1 garlic clove, finely minced
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Salt and pepper mixture, to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 8–10 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and allow to cool for a few minutes.
2. Mash the Cauliflower
Once slightly cooled, transfer the cauliflower to a large mixing bowl and mash using a fork or potato masher until smooth but still a bit chunky. Avoid over-processing to maintain texture.
3. Make the Batter
Add the eggs, milk, paprika, pepper, salt, dried garlic, dried onion, chopped dill, and optional chili flakes to the bowl. Stir until well combined. Gradually add the flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.
4. Shape the Patties
Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per patty and shape into flattened rounds with your hands. Coat each patty with crushed sugar-free cornflakes or breadcrumbs on both sides.
5. Bake the Patties
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush it with olive oil. Arrange the patties on the baking sheet in a single layer without overlapping. Brush the tops of the patties with more olive oil for an even golden finish.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even browning.
6. Make the Garlic-Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Let it chill in the fridge while the patties bake to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve
Once the patties are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a generous dollop of the garlic-yogurt sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Patties + Sauce)
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Calories: ~180
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Protein: 9g
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Fat: 9g
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Carbohydrates: 15g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 3g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on coating and yogurt brand used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cauliflower patties—or “cutlets,” as they are sometimes called in Eastern European cuisines—are a long-standing tradition among households that value economical, plant-based cooking. Cauliflower became especially popular in post-war diets and vegetarian movements across Europe and the Mediterranean for its versatility, affordability, and nutrient density.
Today, as more people adopt plant-forward diets, cauliflower has risen in popularity again. Recipes like this—modernized by baking instead of frying, and enhanced with Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream—are a perfect example of how traditional cooking evolves with health-conscious preferences.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy Yet Light: The oven-baked method and cornflake coating deliver crunch without deep-frying.
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Versatile Dish: Serve as a side, snack, light lunch, or meatless dinner.
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Balanced Flavor: Earthy cauliflower, aromatic dill, and a tangy yogurt sauce hit every flavor note.
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Wholesome Ingredients: No preservatives, no artificial flavors—just real, healthy food.
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Kid-Friendly: The patties are mild in flavor and perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
Health Benefits
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Cauliflower: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C; supports heart and brain health.
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Greek Yogurt: High in protein, probiotics for gut health, and calcium for bone strength.
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Dill & Garlic: Both known for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
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Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that enhances the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients.
These patties are naturally low in sugar, nutrient-dense, and can be made gluten-free by swapping wheat flour for chickpea or almond flour.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with garlic-yogurt sauce and a simple cucumber-tomato salad.
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Top with a poached egg for a brunch-friendly dish.
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Serve in a wrap or pita with shredded lettuce and sauce for a veggie sandwich.
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Add avocado slices or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Undercooked Cauliflower: Make sure florets are soft before mashing to avoid a gritty texture.
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Skipping the Drying Step: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Drain cauliflower well.
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Overmixing: Keep a little texture in your cauliflower for best mouthfeel.
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No Oil Brushing: This leads to dry, pale patties. A light brush of oil is key for crisp results.
Pairing Recommendations
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Drink Pairings: Light white wine (like Pinot Grigio), sparkling water with lemon, or a mild kombucha.
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Meal Pairings: Serve alongside lentil soup, a quinoa salad, or a roasted beet side dish.
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Sauce Pairings: Aside from yogurt, try tahini lemon dressing, avocado dip, or spicy harissa.
Cooking Tips
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Use a cookie scoop for uniform patties.
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Refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes if it’s too soft to shape.
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Want extra flavor? Add grated parmesan or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mix.
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To reheat leftovers, use an oven or air fryer for best texture.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Baked Broccoli Patties with Creamy Dip
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Zucchini and Potato Cakes with Yogurt Sauce
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Cheesy Sweet Potato Fritters
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Chickpea and Spinach Croquettes
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Crispy Quinoa Patties with Tzatziki
Variations to Try
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Spicy: Add chopped jalapeño or chili flakes to the mix.
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Cheesy: Mix in grated cheese like parmesan or gouda before baking.
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Low-Carb: Swap flour for almond flour and use crushed nuts for coating.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).
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Gluten-Free: Use oat flour or rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Ingredient Spotlight: Cauliflower
Cauliflower is more than just a bland white veggie—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. High in vitamin C, fiber, and compounds like sulforaphane (which has anti-cancer properties), it also supports digestion and heart health. It’s incredibly versatile: mash it, roast it, rice it, or turn it into a crispy patty like in this recipe. With a neutral flavor profile, it absorbs seasonings beautifully and works well in a variety of cuisines.
Conclusion
These Baked Cauliflower Patties with Garlic-Yogurt Sauce are proof that healthy food can be easy, affordable, and downright delicious. With their crispy exterior, fluffy interior, and flavorful herb-packed sauce, they’re a satisfying way to enjoy vegetables any time of day. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, cooking dinner for the family, or looking for an exciting vegetarian option, this dish is a keeper. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Absolutely. Store the mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
3. Can I make these patties in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 180°C (356°F) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Are these gluten-free?
They can be if you use gluten-free flour and coating like rice flour and GF breadcrumbs.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet.
6. Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze cooked or uncooked patties in a single layer and store in freezer bags. Bake from frozen as needed.
7. What’s the best cheese to add inside the patty?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta all work great depending on your flavor preference.
8. Can I omit the dill?
Yes, but dill adds a lot of flavor. You can substitute parsley or chives if needed.
9. Is it possible to fry these instead of baking?
Yes, but baking is healthier. If frying, use medium heat and don’t overcrowd the pan.
10. What’s the best way to make the sauce thicker?
Use strained or full-fat Greek yogurt. If it’s still thin, let it sit in the fridge uncovered for a while.