Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe

If you’re looking for a tasty, satisfying, and surprisingly simple dish, my Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe is going to become your new go-to. These patties are crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good about what you’re eating. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be on repeat—whether as a quick snack, a side dish, or even a light meal. Let me walk you through exactly how to make them so you can nail it the first time!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Perfect Balance of Texture: The quinoa forms a great base, while the mozzarella adds gooey creaminess that melts into every bite.
  • Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few pantry staples like oregano and garlic powder, these patties pack a punch.
  • Versatile and Easy to Make: Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a group, you can customize and scale this recipe effortlessly.
  • Great for Meal Prep: These patties store and freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy them throughout the week without extra effort.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient plays a starring role in this Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe. From the fluffy cooked quinoa that acts as your gluten-free grain base to the gooey mozzarella that brings irresistible cheesiness, each element brings texture and flavor that complement one another. Plus, a few simple pantry spices add just the right hint of aroma and warmth.

Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella, Quinoa and Mozzarella Patties, Healthy Quinoa Patties, Crispy Quinoa Snacks, Easy Vegetarian Quinoa Dish - Flat lay of cooked quinoa in a simple white ceramic bowl, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white bowl of dried oregano, a small white bowl of garlic powder, a small white bowl of salt crystals, a small white bowl of black peppercorns, shredded fresh mozzarella cheese in a white ceramic bowl, finely minced red onion in a white bowl, panko breadcrumbs in a white bowl, and a small white bowl with golden avocado oil, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Cooked quinoa: Make sure your quinoa is fluffy and well-cooked but not soggy—it’s the structural base that holds everything together.
  • Eggs: These are your natural binders, helping to hold the patties firm while cooking.
  • Oregano & garlic powder: A little magic for flavor depth; they’re subtle but essential.
  • Salt & black pepper: The foundational seasoning that brings life to all ingredients.
  • Mozzarella cheese: I love the melt factor here—go for a good quality shredded mozzarella for that creamy inside.
  • Red onion (finely minced): Adds a touch of sharpness and crunch to balance the softness.
  • Panko breadcrumbs: These help absorb moisture and give you that lovely crispy crust as you fry the patties.
  • Avocado oil: My go-to for frying because it handles heat well and adds a neutral, healthy fat note.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love to keep this recipe flexible—it’s an easy base that you can tweak depending on your mood or dietary needs. Play around with seasonings or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, and you might just discover your new favorite version.

  • Vegetarian or Vegan Variation: I swap eggs with flax eggs and use vegan mozzarella to go plant-based without losing any texture.
  • Spice it Up: Sometimes I add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a mild kick, which balances beautifully with the mild cheese.
  • Herb Swap: If you have fresh herbs on hand like basil or parsley, toss a handful in—they brighten up the patties wonderfully.
  • Gluten-Free Options: Use almond or oat flour instead of breadcrumbs for a grain-free alternative, and the patties still turn out great!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Magic

Start by combining your cooked quinoa, eggs, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir that together until everything looks well incorporated. Then fold in the shredded mozzarella and finely minced red onion—this is when you really start seeing the patties come together with delicious pockets of cheese and a little crunch from the onions. It’s a great moment; I always find the smell just irresistible here.

Step 2: Add the Crispy Element

Next, sprinkle in your panko breadcrumbs and stir everything well. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes—this is key because it gives time for the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture, helping your patties hold shape. I’ve learned not to skip this step; otherwise, you’re left with crumbly patties that don’t stick together.

Step 3: Form & Fry

Wet your hands with a little water (this helps prevent sticking) and scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture at a time, shaping them gently into round patties. This recipe will make about 10, which is perfect for sharing—or for meal prep! Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, then cook half of the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Repeat with the remaining oil and patties. You’ll want to keep an eye on the heat so they brown nicely without burning.

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Pro Tips for Making Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe

  • Use Slightly Dry Quinoa: Leftover quinoa that’s been refrigerated overnight works best to avoid sogginess.
  • Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the mixture sit after adding breadcrumbs gives firmer, less crumbly patties.
  • Medium Heat Frying: Cooking on medium allows even browning without burning the cheese inside.
  • Wet Hands for Shaping: This trick keeps the mixture from sticking to your fingers and makes patty formation smoother and neater.

How to Serve Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe

Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella, Quinoa and Mozzarella Patties, Healthy Quinoa Patties, Crispy Quinoa Snacks, Easy Vegetarian Quinoa Dish - The image shows two white plates on a white marbled surface. The front plate has two golden-brown quinoa patties with visible small pieces of red onion and crispy edges, one of which has a small piece taken off on a silver fork resting on the plate. There are a few fresh green arugula leaves placed beside the patties. The back plate, slightly out of focus, holds a stack of four similar quinoa patties. A green and white striped cloth napkin is partially visible on the left side. The light is natural and soft, making the colors warm and inviting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping these quinoa patties with a little dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki—it adds a creamy, tangy contrast that’s perfect alongside the cheesy patties. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top brighten the dish and add a fresh pop of color and flavor. Sometimes, a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze works wonders, too. It really depends on the mood!

Side Dishes

I like pairing these patties with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. They also go great with a side of grilled asparagus or sautéed spinach for a quick, nutrient-rich dinner. If you want to keep things casual, tuck them into pita bread with some fresh veggies for an easy sandwich or wrap.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special occasion, I sometimes arrange these patties on a large platter with assorted dips—like marinara, hummus, or even a spicy aioli—and add colorful veggie crudités around the edges. They look beautiful and invite everyone to grab and enjoy. You can also stack 2 patties with fresh tomato slices and basil leaves in between for mini “quinoa burgers” that are always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep my leftover quinoa patties in an airtight container in the fridge—they stay tasty and firmer for up to 5 days. When I want a quick snack, I just grab one or two and reheat them gently. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or lunches on the go.

Freezing

Freezing these patties works wonderfully. I’ve done both freezing them before cooking and after. Just lay the uncooked patties out on a baking sheet in the freezer for at least 4 hours, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook as usual. The cooked patties freeze just as well—perfect for meal prepping in larger batches.

Reheating

To keep them crispy when reheating, I like to bake them in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Using the microwave can make them a bit soggy, so the oven or a quick skillet reheat works best to revive that golden crust.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella in the Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe?

    Absolutely! While mozzarella gives a lovely, mild melt, you can substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sharper cheese like feta for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that some cheeses have stronger flavors or different melt qualities that may slightly change the texture and taste.

  2. How do I make these quinoa patties vegan?

    For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella. The texture will remain satisfying, but make sure to let the mixture rest so everything binds well.

  3. Can I bake the quinoa patties instead of frying them?

    Yes! Baking is a great healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray or brush them with oil, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to get both sides crisp.

  4. What’s the best way to prevent the patties from falling apart?

    Using the right amount of breadcrumbs and letting the mixture rest before shaping helps absorb moisture and create a firmer patty. Also, wetting your hands slightly while shaping prevents sticking and keeps everything compact. Lastly, cook them on medium heat to develop a firm crust that holds them together.

Final Thoughts

I have to say, this Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe has been a revelation in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that’s both comforting and nutritious, quick to whip up, and endlessly adaptable. It’s perfect for anyone who wants something a little different, easy on clean-up, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—I promise these patties will become a staple, just like they did for me.

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Quinoa Patties with Mozzarella Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 23 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 10 patties
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Quinoa Patties are a delicious, protein-packed dish made with cooked quinoa, eggs, mozzarella cheese, and flavorful seasonings. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are perfect as a healthy snack, appetizer, or light meal option.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 tablespoons avocado oil, divided


Instructions

  1. Mix the base: Combine cooked quinoa, eggs, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Stir in the mozzarella cheese and finely minced red onion to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  2. Add and absorb breadcrumbs: Stir in the panko breadcrumbs thoroughly and let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture, helping the patties hold together when cooked.
  3. Form patties: Using a ¼ cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture and wet your hands with water to form approximately 10 uniform patties.
  4. Heat the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
  5. Cook patties in batches: Place half of the patties in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside. Repeat the process with the remaining oil and patties.

Notes

  • The nutrition label corresponds to 1 patty. The recipe yields around 10 patties, serving about 4 people.
  • To store leftovers, place patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • For freezing before cooking, arrange patties on a flat baking dish and freeze for at least 4 hours. Once frozen, move to an airtight bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
  • To freeze after cooking, allow patties to cool completely, then store in an airtight bag and freeze. Reheat by thawing overnight in the fridge and baking at 350°F until warmed through.
  • Substitutions: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) if you want a vegan alternative. Any shredded cheese can replace mozzarella. Gluten-free alternatives to panko breadcrumbs include almond flour or oat flour.
  • For best blending consistency when making dips to serve alongside, a stick blender like the Cuisinart Smart Stick mini blender is recommended.
  • Serving suggestion: One serving is 1-2 patties served with your favorite dip or salad.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 patty
  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg

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