Easy Crispy Parmesan Rice Cakes: A Delicious Leftover Rice Recipe & Gluten-Free Side Dish
Prepare to be amazed by these incredibly flavorful and simple Parmesan rice cakes! Requiring just 5 basic ingredients, these golden, crispy patties are not only a beloved family favorite side dish but also make for a fantastic, satisfying meatless meal when paired with a fresh salad. It’s truly a lifesaver recipe, especially for transforming humble leftover rice into something spectacularly delicious and utterly irresistible. Plus, they’re easily made gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs!
✩ What readers are saying…
“These are so tasty! They will be a staple in my side dish rotation. Love that they work for our gluten free and vegetarian family too.” – Cheryl
Some links in this article are affiliate links and if you click on them and purchase I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.
Among all the recipes I’ve shared, this recipe for Parmesan rice cakes stands out as one of the most consistently popular, both within my own family and among readers here on the website. It’s a true testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.
I first published this recipe back in 2009, making it one of the very first I ever put out into the world. Even then, I knew it was a guaranteed winner – much like my super easy homemade ketchup and simple homemade chocolate syrup. The initial feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and its popularity has only grown over the years.
When my children were younger, these Parmesan rice cakes – or rice patties, as some prefer to call them – graced our dinner table at least a couple of times a month. I can vividly remember them literally cheering when they found out these crispy, cheesy delights were on the menu. That’s how much they loved them! Their enthusiasm made every batch even more rewarding to cook.
While I might not make them quite as frequently now, they remain an absolutely wonderful and ingenious way to transform humble leftover rice into a truly exciting dish. There’s a certain satisfaction in taking something that might otherwise go to waste and turning it into a meal that everyone eagerly anticipates.
In fact, when I’m strategizing our weekly menus, one of my favorite tricks is to intentionally incorporate planned leftovers. This often means cooking a larger batch of rice than strictly necessary for one meal, knowing that the extra portion will be perfectly utilized the following day for this amazing recipe. It’s a smart and simple strategy that not only makes meal planning much easier but also significantly helps in saving money by minimizing food waste. No more wondering what to do with that extra cup of rice!
Of course, you always have the option to cook rice specifically for this recipe. However, this would require a bit of foresight, as you’d need to start cooking the rice about an hour beforehand. For busy individuals like myself, finding that extra hour can sometimes be a challenge, which is why the “planned leftover” approach works so beautifully.
🌟 TIP: Master Your Rice Meal Prep!
If you’re a fan of efficient meal prepping, consider cooking all the rice you’ll need for an entire week, or even two weeks, in one go. Once cooked and cooled, portion the rice into airtight containers or freezer bags for the various recipes and meals you have planned. Rice freezes exceptionally well, making it a fantastic ingredient for batch cooking.
When you’re ready to make these delicious Parmesan rice cakes, simply remember to thaw your frozen rice first. Alternatively, you can take your meal prep a step further by making the rice patties themselves and then freezing them. These pre-made patties are incredibly convenient and can be easily reheated in an air fryer, toaster oven for crispy results, or a microwave for a quick warm-up.
Simple Ingredients for Crispy Parmesan Rice Cakes
The beauty of these Parmesan rice cakes lies in their simplicity. You only need five core ingredients, all of which are real, wholesome, and likely already in your pantry or easily accessible:
- Cooked Rice: The star of the show! Any type of cooked rice works beautifully – white, brown, jasmine, or arborio. Brown rice offers a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber, which I personally prefer, but feel free to use what you have on hand. The key is that it’s cooked and cooled, preferably leftover from the fridge, as this helps with binding.
- Homemade Bread Crumbs: These add a wonderful texture and help with binding the patties. This recipe is a fantastic way to utilize homemade bread crumbs, but store-bought Panko or regular bread crumbs work too. If you need a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free bread crumbs, or even better, omit them entirely (see the tip below for how to adjust).
- Finely Minced Onion: A small amount of finely minced onion adds a subtle savory depth and a hint of fresh flavor without being overpowering. Make sure it’s minced very finely so it cooks thoroughly and blends seamlessly into the patties.
- Eggs: Eggs act as the primary binder, holding all the ingredients together to form cohesive patties. They contribute to the structure and help the rice cakes achieve that coveted golden-brown crispness when cooked.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: This is where the magic happens! Freshly grated Parmesan cheese infuses the rice cakes with a rich, salty, umami flavor that is absolutely addictive. The cheese also aids in binding and creates a delightful cheesy crust.
- Seasonings: Don’t forget the basics: salt and pepper to taste. For an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color, consider adding optional fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. These brighten the overall profile of the rice cakes.
TO MAKE GLUTEN-FREE & GRAIN-FREE: For those seeking a gluten-free or even a grain-free option, you absolutely do not have to use bread crumbs. You can rely solely on the eggs and a slightly increased amount of Parmesan cheese to hold the patties together. If omitting breadcrumbs, ensure you use a full cup of grated Parmesan cheese for every 3 cups of cooked rice (as specified in the recipe). This extra cheese will provide sufficient binding and a boost of flavor.
Essential Supplies for Perfect Rice Patties
To whip up these delicious rice cakes, you’ll need a few common kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and ensure consistently great results:
- Griddle (or Frying Pan): A large cooking surface is ideal. I used to rely on a full-sized griddle like this one, which allows you to cook a big batch all at once. Now, I frequently use a square electric skillet, which is more compact and versatile for other dishes. If you don’t have a griddle, a large non-stick frying pan will work perfectly; you’ll just need to cook the patties in a couple of batches.
- Wide Spatula: Essential for flipping your rice cakes without breaking them. Choose one that’s safe for your griddle or non-stick pan. I highly recommend a silicone-coated ‘fish turner’; its thin, flexible edge makes it perfect for gently sliding under and flipping delicate items like these patties, and I find myself using it for almost everything in the kitchen!
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistency. I prefer durable stainless steel measuring cups for both wet and dry ingredients.
- Mixing Bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is crucial for combining all your ingredients thoroughly without making a mess. I frequently use the bowls from this set of three glass bowls for this recipe and many others due to their versatility and ease of cleaning.
The preparation for these Parmesan rice cakes is wonderfully straightforward. To begin, simply combine all the specified ingredients in your large mixing bowl. Use a spoon or your hands (which can often be the best tools for mixing!) to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated.
The mixture’s consistency is key: it should appear wet and sticky enough to hold together when pressed, but not overly runny. If your mixture feels too dry and crumbly, indicating it might not hold its shape well during cooking, simply add another egg. Egg sizes can vary, so it’s always better for the mixture to be slightly wetter than too dry, as this will prevent the patties from falling apart on the griddle.
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to cook. If you’re fortunate enough to have a large griddle, you can cook an entire batch of these golden patties all at once, saving precious time. If you’re using a standard frying pan, you’ll likely need to cook them in two or more batches. To keep the already cooked patties warm and crispy while you finish the rest, simply transfer them to a baking sheet and place them in a preheated 200-degree Fahrenheit oven.
💡 PRO TIP for Perfectly Shaped Patties: To ensure your rice cakes are uniform in size and shape, which helps them cook evenly and look beautiful, use a 1/4-cup measuring cup. Scoop the rice mixture into the cup, then gently flip the cup over onto your hot griddle or pan. Once the mixture is released, use the back of the measuring cup to gently flatten the mound into a neat, round patty. This trick makes shaping incredibly easy and consistent!
The entire process for this recipe, from mixing the ingredients to serving the piping hot, crispy rice cakes, typically takes only about 15 minutes. This quick preparation time, combined with their incredible flavor and ease of execution, makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or whenever you need a delicious side dish or light meal in a hurry. They truly embody my two main criteria for a great recipe: simple and easy (after being utterly delicious, of course!).
Ingredient Swaps & Flavorful Variations
One of the best things about these Parmesan rice cakes is how adaptable they are. Don’t be afraid to get creative with substitutions and additions to suit your taste or what you have available:
- Rice Versatility: Feel free to use any type of cooked rice you have on hand. While brown rice is preferred for its nutritional value and nutty flavor, white rice, arborio, jasmine, or even basmati will yield delicious results. Just ensure it’s cooked and cooled.
- Effortless Gluten-Free: As mentioned, simply omit the bread crumbs and increase the grated Parmesan cheese to 1 cup for every 3 cups of rice. This ensures the patties still bind beautifully and remain wonderfully flavorful.
- Cheese Exploration: Parmesan is classic, but don’t limit yourself! Experiment with other cheeses for different flavor profiles. Try sharp cheddar for a familiar comfort, creamy Gouda, zesty Monterey Jack, or mild Havarti. A blend of cheeses can also be fantastic.
- Herbaceous Additions: Elevate the freshness by adding more herbs to the mixture before cooking. Freshly chopped chives offer a mild oniony note, basil brings an Italian flair, parsley provides a vibrant green color and fresh taste, and thyme adds an earthy aroma. Dried herbs can also be used, but fresh often yields a more pronounced flavor.
- A Kick of Spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate a 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the mixture. This adds a subtle warmth that can be incredibly satisfying. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of spice.
- Vegetable Boost: Finely grated zucchini (squeezed of excess moisture), corn kernels, or finely diced bell peppers can be folded into the mixture for added nutrients and texture. Make sure any added vegetables are finely diced so they cook evenly and don’t make the patties too watery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Once cooled, cooked Parmesan rice cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for 3 to 5 months, ensuring you always have a quick meal or side dish ready.
For the best texture and crispy edges, reheat leftover rice cakes in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. You can also reheat them in a microwave; to prevent them from drying out, wrap them loosely in a damp paper towel and heat in 15-30 second intervals until warm. Note that microwave reheating won’t achieve the same crispiness.
I personally prefer making these delicious patties with brown rice because it offers a more robust flavor and is generally considered a healthier option compared to white rice. While rice in itself is a good source of carbohydrates and proteins, brown rice retains more of its natural nutrients. It typically contains higher levels of protein, lipids, essential minerals, and vitamins that are often stripped away during the refining process that produces white rice. However, the recipe is versatile, and you can certainly use any type of cooked rice you have on hand; white rice will still yield fantastic results.
While the recipe specifically calls for leftover, cooled cooked rice, you can use freshly cooked rice. The key is to ensure it’s cooled completely. Warm or hot rice can make the mixture too sticky and difficult to form into patties. Spreading freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and letting it cool at room temperature (or even refrigerating for 30 minutes) before mixing works well.
For frying, it’s best to use an oil with a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Good options include vegetable oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or light olive oil. Avoid extra virgin olive oil for frying, as its smoke point is lower, and it can impart a strong flavor. You only need enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of your pan or griddle to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
I promise you are going to absolutely love these Parmesan rice cakes – their crispy exterior and cheesy, tender interior are simply irresistible. Unless, of course, you have a dairy sensitivity, to which I can only say – I’m so sorry. Truly, I wish everyone could experience this delightful dish!
Delicious Serving Suggestions
These versatile Parmesan rice cakes can be enjoyed in so many ways, making them a fantastic addition to almost any meal. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Classic Side Dish: Serve them as a comforting and flavorful side dish alongside any grilled or baked meat, poultry, or seafood. They pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pan-seared fish, or a juicy steak.
- Hearty Meatless Main: Transform them into the star of a delicious meatless meal by serving them with a crisp, vibrant green salad. A simple vinaigrette or a creamy dressing complements their rich flavor perfectly.
- Summer Grilling Companion: For a delightful twist, make them ahead of time and then quickly grill them for a few minutes to heat through and add a smoky char. They’re excellent paired with Soy Sriracha Chicken and a medley of Grilled Vegetables.
- Quick & Easy Lunch: Enjoy them for lunch with a side of fresh-cut vegetables. They are incredibly satisfying on their own or made even better with a dipping sauce like a homemade Ranch dressing or a tangy Feta Dip.
- Breakfast/Brunch Favorite: Don’t limit these to dinner! Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a creative and hearty breakfast or brunch option.
- Appetizer Fun: Make smaller patties and serve them with a variety of dipping sauces at your next gathering. A marinara sauce, a spicy aioli, or even a sweet chili sauce would be fantastic.
What Our Readers Are Raving About
The feedback from those who have tried these Parmesan rice cakes is consistently glowing. Here’s what some happy cooks and eaters have shared:
“Great recipe! I have been making it for years now. Today I made them in my air fryer for the first time – they are even better that way and you save the oil you‘d put in the pan.” -Carmen
“Made these with a mix of brown and wild rice. They were delicious and whole family gobbled them up.” -Natalya
“Tried these today when I had too much leftover rice. Love them, especially with a dipping sauce of some sort. My son even enjoyed them!” -Jennifer
I truly hope you and your family love these simple yet incredibly satisfying Parmesan rice cakes as much as we do. They’re a testament to how humble ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. If you give them a try, please be sure to leave a comment and a star review to share your experience – your feedback means the world!
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
SaveSaved!
Parmesan Rice Cakes (Rice Patties)
Equipment
-
griddle, skillet or electric skillet
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice, brown rice preferred, but any kind works
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs (Gluten Free: omit and see note below to adjust recipe)
- 3 eggs
- 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup onion finely minced
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- oil for pan
Instructions
-
Place all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well (TIP: if mixture seems dry, add another egg – it should hold together, but not be too runny).
-
Heat oil on a nonstick griddle or in a pan over medium-high heat.
-
Using a 1/4 cup measure, place a dollop of rice mixture on the griddle/pan, then use the back of the cup to flatten into a patty. Repeat with remaining rice mixture.
-
Cook the first side until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until brown.
-
Serve immediately or see notes for storage options.
Notes
Storage & Make Ahead: Cover cooled patties and refrigerate until needed up to 5 days (or even freeze for longer storage, up to 5 months), reheating them in a 350 degree oven (or on the grill) for a few minutes until warm and crisp.
More Variations:
- Add dried or fresh herbs to the mixture before cooking.
- Use a different cheese: cheddar, gouda, pepper jack, havarti, etc.
Nutrition
More Easy & Delicious Side Dishes to Try
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of these Parmesan rice cakes, you’ll surely enjoy these other easy-to-make side dish recipes that complement a variety of meals:
- Zucchini-Feta Fritters with Lime: Light, flavorful, and a great way to use garden zucchini, these fritters offer a delightful fresh twist.
- Simple Flavorful Baked Tasty Rice: A classic comfort dish that’s incredibly easy to make and universally loved. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Grilled Potato Planks: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these grilled potatoes are a fantastic accompaniment to any BBQ or outdoor meal.
- Quick Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli, and a dusting of Parmesan and garlic takes it to the next level for a healthy and speedy side.
- Creamy Macaroni Salad (Potluck Perfect): A timeless classic, this creamy macaroni salad is ideal for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a refreshing side to your weeknight dinner.
Disclosure: affiliate links in this article will earn commission based on sales, but it doesn’t change your price. Click here to read my full disclaimer and advertising disclosure.