Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup flour; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick Inspiration

I absolutely love making baked falafel bites for Super Bowl parties! They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them the perfect crowd-pleaser. I enjoy serving these with a tangy tahini sauce that complements the earthy flavors of the chickpeas and spices. The best part is that they are baked rather than fried, so I can indulge without the guilt. Plus, they are simple to make and can be prepped ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the game with my friends instead of spending all my time in the kitchen!

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:01:34.604Z

When I first made these baked falafel bites, I was amazed at how easy they were to prepare. Using chickpeas, herbs, and spices, I created a mix that was both flavorful and nutritious. Baking them instead of frying allowed me to keep the texture crisp while reducing the oil used. That’s a win in my book!

What makes these bites so special is the balance of spices. I added cumin and coriander, which not only enhance the flavor but also bring in a warm aroma. I suggest letting the mixture rest for a bit before shaping to achieve the best texture. These are bound to become a favorite at my Super Bowl gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Crispy texture without the frying
Packed with nutrients and flavor
Perfect for dipping and sharing

The Importance of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs play a critical role in elevating the flavor profile of your baked falafel bites. Using parsley and cilantro not only enhances the taste but also adds vibrant color, making the bites more visually appealing. I recommend using a sharp knife to finely chop the herbs, as this gives a fresher taste compared to store-bought pre-chopped options. If you're short on time, feel free to substitute with dried herbs, but remember that the flavor may be less pronounced.

While fresh herbs are my go-to, you can experiment with other variants like dill or mint for a different flavor twist. These can add a refreshing note, which is especially pleasant when paired with the creamy tahini sauce. Just remember to adjust the quantity since fresh herbs can be more concentrated than dried ones. With these substitutions, you can customize your falafel bites to suit your own taste palette.

The Perfect Baking Technique

When baking the falafel, achieving the right texture is key. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to create a crispy exterior. As they bake, flipping them halfway through is crucial; this ensures they cook evenly and develop a uniform golden-brown color. You should look for a slightly firm texture on the outside while remaining tender on the inside—this contrast is what makes these falafel bites so delightful to eat.

Additionally, don’t skip the brushing step with olive oil before baking. This small step helps to promote browning, giving that craveable crispiness without frying. If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of oil, but I find that the richness really complements the flavors of the chickpeas and spices. Remember, the oven time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your falafel bites, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start making your falafel bites!

Baked Falafel Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup flour
2 tbsp olive oil

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious falafel bites!

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until coarsely blended.

Add Flour

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in flour until just combined.

Form the Bites

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Brush with Oil

Lightly brush each falafel bite with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Let them cool briefly, then serve with your favorite sauce and enjoy!

And there you have it! Delicious baked falafel bites that are perfect for sharing.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding chili powder can give these bites an extra kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

These baked falafel bites are perfect for meal prepping. You can form the mixture into balls and freeze them before baking, making them an easy snack or party food on demand. Just arrange the uncooked falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, you can cook them directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

If you're looking to serve these for a gathering, I recommend preparing the tahini sauce the day before. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more robust dipping option for the falafel. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before serving for the best consistency.

Serving Suggestions

These baked falafel bites can be served in a variety of ways, making them versatile for any Super Bowl party. For a classic approach, pair them with a tangy tahini sauce, but you can also consider yogurt-based dips like tzatziki for a cooling effect. Serving them in a wrap with fresh vegetables and your choice of sauce adds a satisfying crunch and makes for a fun handheld option.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider creating a falafel platter with sides like pickled vegetables and hummus. This not only adds visual interest but also offers guests a variety of flavors to explore. They also work well on a salad or grain bowl, allowing for a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. The options are endless when it comes to enjoying these bites!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze baked falafel bites?

Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Just cool completely, then place in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with falafel bites?

They pair well with tahini sauce, yogurt sauce, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make falafel bites gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.