Cauliflower Cheddar Fritters are crispy, cheesy and lighter than potato fritters. Sharp cheddar and garlic make them full of flavor.
Crispy cauliflower fritters with sharp cheddar and garlic. A lighter, low-carb-friendly fritter that's full of flavor. They're easily made low-carb and perfect as a side, snack or light lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-carb option
- Cheesy and crispy
- Light and satisfying
- Easy to make
Ingredients for Cauliflower Cheddar Fritters
- 1 small head cauliflower, finely chopped or riced (about 3 cups)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan
- 1/3 cup (40 g) flour or almond flour
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- Olive oil, for frying
- Sour cream, for serving
Equipment You’ll Need
- Box grater or food processor with grating disc
- Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth for squeezing
- Large mixing bowl
- Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
- Thin metal spatula
- Paper towel-lined plate
Ingredient Notes
- Cauliflower: Riced cauliflower saves time.
- Cheddar: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor.
- Almond flour: For low-carb fritters.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because cauliflower takes on the flavor of whatever you pair it with, and here it soaks up sharp cheddar, garlic and green onions. Pre-cooking the riced cauliflower softens it so the fritters are tender inside, while squeezing it dry ensures a crisp golden outside. Cheddar does double duty as flavor and binder, helping these low-carb fritters hold together without much flour. They're light, satisfying and a fantastic way to enjoy cauliflower, even for people who usually avoid it.
The Secret to Firm Cauliflower Fritters
Cooked cauliflower releases lots of steam and water, so cooling and squeezing it is key. Cheese acts as a binder as it melts, helping the fritters hold together.
Full measurements and printable instructions are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Cauliflower Cheddar Fritters
Step 1
Steam or microwave the riced cauliflower 4-5 minutes until tender. Cool and squeeze dry.
Step 2
Mix with eggs, cheddar, Parmesan, green onions, garlic, salt and pepper.
Step 3
Stir in the flour.
Step 4
Fry spoonfuls in oil over medium heat 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 5
Serve with sour cream.
Tips for the Best Results
- Squeeze well.
- Let fritters set before flipping.
- Use a non-stick pan.
Variations to Try
- Add broccoli.
- Use pepper Jack.
- Add curry powder.
What to Serve With It
Serve with sour cream, ranch or as a side for grilled chicken.
Storage and Reheating
Use almond flour for a low-carb version. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8-10 minutes to keep the edges crispy.
Is It Healthy?
Cauliflower is low in carbs and calories and rich in vitamin C and fiber. Using almond flour makes these fritters keto-friendly.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Great for low-carb lunches, game-day snacks and family dinners.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Rice and cook the cauliflower a day ahead. Cooked fritters keep 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen riced cauliflower?
Yes, cook and squeeze dry.
Are these keto?
Yes, with almond flour.
Can I bake them?
Yes, at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, up to 2 months.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar or Gruyère.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy, crispy and light, these cauliflower fritters are a smart, tasty choice.
PrintCauliflower Cheddar Fritters
Crispy cauliflower fritters with sharp cheddar and garlic. A lighter, low-carb-friendly fritter that’s full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 10 fritters) 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 small head cauliflower, finely chopped or riced (about 3 cups)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan
- 1/3 cup (40 g) flour or almond flour
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- Olive oil, for frying
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions
- Steam or microwave the riced cauliflower 4-5 minutes until tender. Cool and squeeze dry.
- Mix with eggs, cheddar, Parmesan, green onions, garlic, salt and pepper.
- Stir in the flour.
- Fry spoonfuls in oil over medium heat 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve with sour cream.
Notes
Use almond flour for a low-carb version.