Baked Falafel

This is one of my favorite meatless recipes to keep in the rotation because it does so much with so little. Everything goes into the food processor, the patties come together quickly, and the oven does the rest. Easy win!

The flavor is what makes these so good. You've got chickpeas, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, and a little lemon juice all working together, so they taste bright and herby with plenty of savory flavor. They're also super versatile, which is always a plus when you're meal prepping.

And while classic falafel is usually deep-fried, this baked version still gives you those golden edges and a really satisfying texture. It's lighter, less messy, and a whole lot more weeknight-friendly!

Before You Get Started

Here are a few things worth knowing before you start cooking so everything goes smoothly.

• Flour swap: Whole wheat flour helps bind everything together, but gluten-free flour works well if you need to keep these gluten-free.
• Dry the chickpeas well: Pat the chickpeas dry before blending so the mixture is easier to shape and the falafel holds together better.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro really matter here, since they bring most of the bright, classic falafel flavor.
• Crispier option: Spray the patties with cooking spray for ease, or brush both sides with olive oil if you want more browning and crunch.

How to Make Baked Falafel

Here's a quick overview of how to pull this recipe together step-by-step.

1. Blend The Falafel Mixture

Add the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, and salt to a food processor. Pulse until you have a thick, chunky mixture, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

2. Stir In The Flour And Baking Soda

Transfer the mixture to a bowl if needed, then stir in the flour and baking soda until everything is combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.

3. Shape The Patties

Form the mixture into small patties using about 2 tablespoons for each one, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray with cooking spray or brush lightly with olive oil.

Pro tip: If the mixture feels too soft to shape, chill it in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes before baking. That makes a big difference!

4. Bake Until Golden

Bake at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the falafel is golden brown and set on the outside.

Pro tip: If they stick when you try to flip them, give them another minute or two. Once the bottoms brown, they release much more easily.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are the best tips and pro tricks to help this recipe turn out perfectly every time.

• Oil the pan for more crispness: If you want even crispier bottoms, lightly coat the parchment or baking sheet with olive oil before adding the falafel.
• Keep some texture: Don't puree the mixture completely smooth. A thick, slightly chunky texture gives the falafel a better bite.
• Add extra lemon: A little more lemon juice can brighten the flavor, but don't overdo it or the mixture can get too wet.
• Make them into balls: You can shape these into balls instead of patties, just keep them compact and watch the bake time.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you want a little extra heat.
• Meal prep protein: Make a batch early in the week and use it in wraps, bowls, salads, and snack plates for easy lunches!

Serving Ideas

Here are some easy and delicious ways to serve this recipe.

• Pita wrap: Tuck the falafel into a pita with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and your favorite sauce.
• Grain bowl: Add them to a bowl with rice or quinoa, chopped veggies, olives, and a drizzle of tahini. If I'm feeling fancy, I'll throw the falafel on top of Quinoa Tabbouleh with Lentils!
• Top off a salad or bowl. Falafel is a great plant-based protein to add to your favorite salads, grain bowls, or even to this Chicken Kofta Bowl. You can't go wrong in pairing this dish with a bed of fresh greens, tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of cheese.
• Mezze plate: Serve with hummus, tzatziki, olives, cucumbers, and warm pita for an easy appetizer spread.
• Snack plate: Pair with cut veggies and dip for an easy high-protein snack or light lunch.

Storage & Reheating

Here's how to store, reheat, and enjoy your leftovers.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked falafel for up to 3 months. Let them cool first, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven, toaster oven, or air fryer for the best texture, or microwave if you just need them warm fast.
• Leftovers: Crumble leftovers into salads, stuff them into wraps, or add them to a grain bowl with extra veggies and sauce.