Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites

Name: Super Bowl Party Food Baked Falafel Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons flour (or breadcrumbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; Water to thin, as needed; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Celebration Seasonal Food Inspiration

I love entertaining during the Super Bowl, and these Baked Falafel Bites have become a staple at my gatherings. They’re packed with flavors and are wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. The best part? They’re baked instead of fried, so I can enjoy them guilt-free. With a side of tangy tahini sauce or a refreshing tzatziki, these bites are the perfect game day snack that everyone will rave about. Plus, they’re easy to make in large batches, ensuring no one goes hungry during the big game!

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:25:36.511Z

When I first attempted making baked falafel, I was apprehensive about losing that delicious crunch common in fried versions. However, I discovered that using a combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, along with a little oil, made the texture just right. Baking them at a high temperature gives them that golden finish I crave. I was pleasantly surprised how well they turned out!

Another tip I learned is to make sure the mixture is not too wet when forming the balls. It’s all about finding the right consistency—moist enough to hold together, but dry enough to get that crispy outer layer. These bites always disappear quickly at my parties, and I bet they will at yours too!

        Why You'll Love These Baked Falafel Bites
        Crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful center
Perfectly spiced with fresh herbs for vibrant taste
A healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks
Easy to prepare in large batches for any gathering

      

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in baked falafel bites is all about the right balance of moisture and binding ingredients. The chickpeas should be mashed but retain some texture—this ensures a hearty bite. Over-processing can lead to a mushy consistency, so pulse just until combined. If you find your mixture too wet, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to help them hold their shape during baking.

When shaping the falafel, make sure to wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. This also helps shape the bites evenly, leading to a crispy exterior once baked. The olive oil drizzle on top before baking is crucial; it promotes browning and creates that desirable crunch without frying.

Tailoring Flavors and Ingredients

The flavor profile of your falafel can be customized by adjusting the spices or adding different herbs. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or fresh mint for a cooling effect. If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried versions can work in a pinch, though fresh herbs provide a vivid and bright taste that enhances the overall dish significantly.

For those looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or chickpea flour can be used in place of regular flour. Just remember that different flours may require adjustments in moisture; start with less and add only if needed for binding.

Storage and Leftover Ideas

These baked falafel bites are fantastic for meal prep! After baking, allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, bake them straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring a fresh-out-of-the-oven crispness.

Leftover falafel bites can be repurposed in many ways. Chop them up for a hearty salad topping or make a wrap with fresh veggies and tahini sauce for a quick lunch. They also work well as a protein source in a grain bowl, paired with grains like quinoa or couscous for a filling meal.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect falafel bites:

For Baked Falafel Bites

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons flour (or breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon

For Tahini Sauce

1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Water to thin, as needed
Salt to taste

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand to enhance your falafel experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious batch of baked falafel bites:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, spices, flour, and lemon zest. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely blended but not pureed.

Form the Bites

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.

Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

Make the Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Add water gradually to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Serve the baked falafel bites warm with tahini sauce or your choice of dipping sauce.

Enjoy these crispy falafel bites as a wonderful addition to your Super Bowl spread!

Pro Tips

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, and you can also add other spices like paprika for extra flavor!

Perfecting the Tahini Sauce

In making the tahini sauce, the key is to balance the richness of the tahini with the right amount of acidity. If you enjoy tangy flavors, consider increasing the lemon juice, or even adding a splash of vinegar for extra zest. The consistency can vary based on the brand of tahini, so adjust the water gradually until you achieve a smooth, pourable sauce that clings nicely to your falafel bites.

You can elevate the tahini sauce by adding ingredients such as cumin or smoked paprika for depth. A pinch of cayenne can bring unexpected heat, transforming it into a bold accompaniment. Don’t hesitate to experiment—flavors can be mixed and matched to fit your preferences!

Serving Suggestions

These baked falafel bites shine when served with a variety of dips and sides. Along with tahini sauce, tzatziki offers a refreshing contrast, while sriracha or harissa can satisfy those who crave heat. Pair your bites with traditional fixings like pita bread, fresh vegetables, or even a simple yogurt dip for added creaminess.

To create a fun and interactive serving experience, consider arranging a falafel bar with various dips and toppings. Set out colorful bowls filled with sliced cucumbers, pickled onions, or even a tangy slaw. This encourages guests to customize their bites and makes for a lively game day spread!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze baked falafel bites?

Yes! Simply let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

→ Can I use dried chickpeas?

Absolutely! Soak them overnight, cook until tender, and then proceed with the recipe.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Are these falafel bites gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour or breadcrumbs, they can be made gluten-free!