Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup flour (or gluten-free option); 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Meals

I love hosting Super Bowl parties, and these Baked Falafel Bites have become a staple on my snack table. They're crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, making them a healthier alternative to traditional game day snacks. Made with chickpeas and fresh herbs, they are not only delicious but also easy to prepare in advance. I often serve them with tangy tahini sauce or a yogurt dip, which perfectly complements their texture and spice. Your guests will be raving about them long after the last touchdown!

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:21:35.237Z

When I first tried making baked falafel, I was skeptical about how they would turn out compared to fried versions. However, after several attempts, I discovered that a quick blend of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, followed by baking, yields an incredibly flavorful and satisfying bite. What’s even better is that they are baked until golden, providing a wonderful crunch that’s addictive!

One tip I’ve learned is to let the mixture rest for a while before forming the bites. This helps the flavors meld and makes the falafel much easier to shape. Trust me; this small step makes a world of difference in texture and taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy texture without the guilt of frying
Packed with plant-based protein and flavor
Easily customizable with your favorite spices and dips

Ingredient Insights

The star of these Baked Falafel Bites is undoubtedly the chickpeas, which not only provide a hearty base but are also rich in protein and fiber. They create the perfect texture when blended, giving the falafel a sturdy yet tender bite. If you're in a pinch for time, using canned chickpeas ensures that you can whip these up quickly without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Just make sure they're well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.

Fresh herbs contribute vibrant flavor profiles to the falafel. Parsley and cilantro not only add color but also help to balance the earthiness of the chickpeas. If you're not a fan of cilantro, feel free to substitute with extra parsley or even dill, which can add an interesting twist. The herbs should be finely chopped to release their oils, enhancing the overall taste without leaving large chunks in the mixture.

Baking Techniques

Getting the right bake on your falafel bites is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender. Drizzling with olive oil before baking helps them achieve a golden-brown exterior. If you notice that they aren’t browning sufficiently after 25 minutes, keep them in for an additional 5 minutes and check for a crispy texture. Remember to flip them halfway; this ensures uniform cooking and that all sides are equally delectable.

For those counting calories or on a healthier diet, you can experiment with an air fryer instead of the oven. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the falafel bites for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them around halfway through. The air fryer circulates hot air, allowing them to crisp up nicely without needing much oil. This creates a fantastic texture while cutting down on fat content significantly.

Ingredients

For these scrumptious Baked Falafel Bites, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup flour (or gluten-free option)
2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure each ingredient is fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your falafel bites:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, spices, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but not pureed.

Form the Bites

Transfer the mixture to a bowl, add flour, and mix well. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and place them on the baking sheet.

Bake

Drizzle the falafel bites with olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown.

Serve

Let them cool for a few minutes and serve warm with your favorite dips.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Falafel Bites at your Super Bowl party!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chickpeas in lemon juice and spices before blending. You can also experiment with different herbs or add a touch of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Falafel Bites truly shine when paired with complementary dips. A tangy tahini sauce adds a nutty element that contrasts beautifully with the falafel's spices. To create a quick tahini dip, mix tahini with lemon juice, garlic, and water until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Alternatively, a cooling yogurt sauce with cucumber and mint can offer a refreshing accompaniment, perfect for balancing the spiciness.

Consider serving the falafel bites in a unique way by building a falafel platter. Include an assortment of dips, fresh veggies, and warm pita bread. This interactive style allows guests to customize their bites, enhancing their tasting experience. Adding pickled vegetables can also introduce a tangy crunch that pairs remarkably well with the savory falafel.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing these falafel bites in advance can save you time on the day of your gathering. You can form the balls or patties and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only helps the flavors meld but also makes for easy last-minute snacks. If you'd like to prepare them even further in advance, consider freezing them before baking—just make sure to arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag.

When stored properly, leftover Baked Falafel Bites can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. This helps to restore their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving them, as this can result in a soggy consistency, compromising that delicious crunch you desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these falafel bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just form and bake them when you're ready to serve!

→ What dipping sauces pair well with falafel?

Tahini sauce, tzatziki, or a spicy yogurt dip are all great choices!

→ Can I freeze the baked falafel bites?

Absolutely! Just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container, and they can be reheated directly from frozen.

→ Are these falafel bites gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free flour alternative, they can easily be made gluten-free!