Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1/4 cup flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp water (more as needed); 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can't think of a better way to celebrate the Super Bowl than with these delicious baked falafel bites! Perfectly spiced and wonderfully crispy, they’re a fantastic alternative to traditional party snacks. I love serving them with a zesty tahini sauce that complements their flavor beautifully. Whether you’re watching the big game with friends or having a cozy night in, these bites will keep everyone happy and satisfied. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, making them an ideal choice for any gathering!

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:22:10.750Z

When I first made these baked falafel bites, I was blown away by how easy it was to create such flavorful fare. The combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices creates an amazing depth of flavor. I also found that baking instead of frying not only cuts down on the guilt but still yields that satisfying crunch.

To ensure they come out perfectly, I recommend letting the mixture chill in the fridge for a bit before shaping them. This helps the bites hold their shape while baking, preventing any disintegration. Trust me; this small step makes all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling, perfect for any gathering
Versatile - great with dips or as a standalone snack
Baking makes them healthier without sacrificing flavor

      

Perfecting Your Falafel Texture

Achieving the right falafel texture is key to a successful bite. When processing the chickpeas and herbs, aim for a mixture that is mostly smooth but retains some texture. This ensures the falafel have a delightful crunch on the outside while being soft and flavorful on the inside. If the mixture feels too wet, adding a tablespoon more flour can help. Be careful not to overprocess; a few chunks are perfectly acceptable and enhance the falafel's rustic appeal.

After forming your balls or patties, consider letting them sit for a few minutes before baking. This resting period helps them hold their shape during cooking. Always use a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy release. Additionally, ensure the bites are spaced apart; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Look for a golden-brown hue and a firm exterior—these are signs your falafel are ready to come out of the oven!

Versatile Serving Suggestions

While the baked falafel bites are delicious on their own, there are multiple ways to elevate your serving game. Try pairing them with a variety of dips like spicy harissa, yogurt sauce, or even a fresh mango salsa for added contrast. You can also serve them atop a salad for a hearty, nutritious meal, or in pita bread as part of a mini sandwich. These options turn the falafel bites into a versatile dish that can complement any palate.

For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some extra cayenne pepper into your mixture for a spicy kick. Alternatively, adding diced veggies like bell peppers or carrots into the falafel mix can enhance both the flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with herbs—adding mint or dill can give your bites an aromatic twist, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying at home.

Ingredients

For the Baked Falafel Bites

1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/4 cup flour
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Tahini Sauce

1/4 cup tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp water (more as needed)
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, onion, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Process until mixture is mostly smooth with some texture. Transfer to a bowl, stir in flour, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Shape and Bake the Bites

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Once chilled, shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Make the Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, and salt. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.

Serve

Serve the baked falafel bites warm with the tahini sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy texture, you can broil the falafel bites for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Ingredient Insights

Chickpeas are the heart of this falafel recipe; they provide the essential base and contribute to the nutritional profile—packing in protein and fiber. If time is short, using canned chickpeas is convenient, but for an authentic texture, consider soaking and cooking dried chickpeas ahead of time. This not only offers a firmer texture but enhances the overall flavor as well.

The fresh herbs—parsley and cilantro—are what elevate this recipe and give it that vibrant Middle Eastern flair. These herbs add a bright, slightly peppery flavor that balances well with the spices. If you're not a fan of cilantro, feel free to replace it with additional parsley or even fresh mint for a refreshing twist. The key is to ensure you're using fresh herbs for maximum flavor impact.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of baked falafel bites is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare the falafel mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the flour right before shaping to maintain the mixture's integrity. This saves you time on game day and ensures your bites are as fresh as possible when baked.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked falafel bites for up to three months. Just shape them, freeze on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, simply adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make falafel bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and shape the bites a day in advance. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

→ Are these falafel bites gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free flour alternative like almond flour or chickpea flour.

→ What can I serve with the falafel bites?

They pair well with tahini sauce, tzatziki, or even hummus, along with fresh veggies.

→ Can I freeze the baked falafel bites?

Certainly! You can freeze them after they cool down. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.