Dinner

Crispy Rice Patties: The Easy Way to Upgrade Leftovers Recipe

Byreem everly February 13, 2026February 13, 2026

Introduction

Crispy Rice Patties are a fantastic way to breathe new life into your leftover rice. These patties are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect as a snack or a side dish. Plus, they’re versatile enough to suit vegetarian and vegan diets with simple swaps.

The image shows three crispy rice patties stacked on a dark wooden surface, each round patty about one layer thick with a golden-brown crust on the top and edges, and soft, sticky white rice visible on the sides. The top of each patty is sprinkled with small, fresh green herb leaves that add color contrast. The background is softly blurred with hints of green, likely herbs or plants. The lighting highlights the texture of the rice and the crunchiness of the crust, giving a warm and inviting feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked leftover rice or cooled fresh rice
1 large egg or flax egg for vegan option
1 medium onion or shallots/green onions
2 cloves garlic or garlic powder
¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro/dill
½ cup grated cheddar cheese or mozzarella/dairy-free version
¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream/non-dairy yogurt
1 medium red bell pepper or any bell pepper color
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika/chili powder
2 tablespoons lime juice or lemon juice
½ cup all-purpose flour or rice flour for gluten-free
2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut/avocado oil

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the leftover rice, chopped onion, grated cheese, beaten egg, fresh parsley, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Carefully add the all-purpose flour, gently folding it in to create a cohesive mixture.
Step 4: Form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about ½ inch thick.
Step 5: In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Step 6: Place 4 patties in the skillet, frying each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 7: Serve your crispy rice patties hot, paired with a favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg and use dairy-free cheese and yogurt alternatives.
Swap smoked paprika for chili powder for a spicier kick.
Add finely chopped herbs like cilantro or dill for different fresh flavors.
For extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs in the mixture or on the patties before frying.

Storage

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or warm in the oven. For a lighter version, you can also bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How to Serve

The image shows three golden-brown rice patties stacked closely on a wooden board. Each patty has a crispy, textured surface with a mix of light and dark brown colors, highlighting the toasted rice grains. Small pieces of green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh touch. The rice inside looks soft and sticky, contrasting with the crunchy outside. The background is blurry but hints at a white marbled texture underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rice patties gluten-free?

Yes, simply use rice flour instead of all-purpose flour to keep the patties gluten-free without affecting the texture or taste.

What can I serve with crispy rice patties?

These patties pair well with dipping sauces like sour cream, yogurt-based dips, salsa, or a tangy chutney. They also make a great side for salads or grilled vegetables.

reem everly