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Sweet Potato Quinoa Patties – Crispy, Wholesome, Protein-Packed Vegetarian Patties Perfect for Healthy Meals

Sweet potato quinoa patties are the kind of recipe that instantly becomes a favorite once you try it. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, and made with nourishing ingredients that make you feel good after every bite. Combining naturally sweet roasted sweet potatoes with fluffy quinoa, herbs, and gentle spices, these patties strike the perfect balance between comfort food and healthy eating. What makes this recipe truly special is how simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and versatile. Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness, moisture, and essential nutrients, while quinoa adds structure, plant-based protein, and a slightly nutty flavor. Together, they form a hearty base that’s filling enough for a main meal yet light enough to enjoy any time of day. These patties are ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family-friendly dinners. They can be pan-fried for crispiness or baked for a lighter option, and they pair beautifully with salads, grain bowls, wraps, or dipping sauces. Whether you’re vegetarian, trying to eat more plant-based meals, or simply looking for a delicious way to use sweet potatoes and quinoa, this recipe fits effortlessly into your routine. Comforting, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable, these Sweet Potato Quinoa Patties prove that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring. With warm flavors, satisfying texture, and wholesome ingredients, they’re a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 10 patties
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 egg or flax egg for vegan option
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Fresh Add-Ins
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking mixture
For Cooking
  • Olive oil for pan-frying
  • These ingredients create flavorful well-balanced patties that hold together beautifully.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan (for quinoa)
  • Baking tray (for sweet potatoes)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper (optional)

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread cubed sweet potatoes on a baking tray.
  3. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender.
  4. Remove from oven and mash until smooth.
  5. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
  1. Rinse quinoa thoroughly.
  2. Cook according to package instructions.
  3. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool slightly.
  4. Well-cooked quinoa helps bind the patties.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
  1. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet.
  2. Sauté chopped onion until soft.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combine the Mixture
  1. In a large bowl, add:
  2. Mashed sweet potatoes
  3. Cooked quinoa
  4. Onion and garlic
  5. Egg (or flax egg)
  6. Breadcrumbs
  7. Paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper
  8. Fresh parsley
  9. Mix until the mixture holds together when pressed.
  10. If too wet → add breadcrumbs
  11. If too dry → add a splash of water
Step 5: Shape the Patties
  1. Scoop portions of the mixture.
  2. Shape into round patties using your hands.
  3. Place on a plate and chill for 10 minutes if needed.
Step 6: Cook the Patties
  1. Pan-Frying Method
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
  4. Baking Method
  5. Place patties on parchment-lined tray.
  6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 7: Serve
  1. Serve warm with salads, grain bowls, or sauces.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in skillet or oven for best texture.
🥄 Variations
Vegan Patties
Replace egg with flax egg.
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or cayenne.
Herb-Loaded Patties
Add cilantro, basil, or dill.
Cheesy Patties
Add shredded cheese for richness.
Mediterranean Style
Add oregano and nutritional yeast.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Do these patties hold together well?
Yes, quinoa and egg help bind them perfectly.
2. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, baking works great for a lighter version.
3. Can I use leftover quinoa?
Absolutely, it’s ideal.
4. Are these patties healthy?
Yes, they’re rich in fiber, protein, and nutrients.
5. Can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
6. Can kids eat these?
Yes, they’re mild and kid-friendly.
7. Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, shape and refrigerate before cooking.
8. Why are my patties soft?
Add more breadcrumbs or chill before cooking.
9. What sauces pair well?
Yogurt sauce, tahini, or garlic sauce.
10. Can I serve them cold?
Yes, they work well in salads.
🏁 Conclusion
These Sweet Potato Quinoa Patties are everything a wholesome vegetarian recipe should be — comforting, flavorful, nourishing, and easy to prepare. With their crispy exterior and soft, satisfying center, they make a perfect main dish, side, or snack. Made with simple ingredients and adaptable to many styles, these patties fit beautifully into busy lifestyles while delivering balanced nutrition and comforting flavor. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple recipe you’ll love making again and again.