3 Easy Rice Patties the Whole Family Will Love

When it comes to quick, family-friendly meals, few ingredients are as versatile as rice.

Affordable, filling, and loved by both kids and adults, rice can be transformed into countless comforting dishes with minimal effort. One of the easiest and most delicious options? Homemade rice patties.

Soft on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside, rice patties are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even packed into a lunchbox. They're also a great way to use up leftover rice while adding vegetables, cheese, or protein for a satisfying meal the whole family can enjoy.

Better yet, kids often love helping shape the patties, making this a fun recipe to prepare together.

Rice and Veggie Patties

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
• Pinch of salt

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the rice, carrot, zucchini, egg, flour, and salt. Mix until well combined and the mixture holds together.

Shape into small patties and place on a lightly greased baking sheet.

Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Alternatively, pan-fry in a small amount of oil until golden on both sides.

Cheesy Rice Patties

Ingredients

• 2 cups hot cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt

Directions

Mix the hot rice with the shredded cheese so it begins to melt slightly.

Add the egg, flour, and salt, stirring until the mixture comes together. For extra flavor, add a pinch of pizza seasoning or Italian seasoning.

Shape into patties and pan-fry in a lightly oiled skillet until golden brown on both sides.

The result is a soft, cheesy patty with a deliciously gooey center that children especially enjoy.

Rice Patties with Ground Chicken

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped and sautéed
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the rice, ground chicken, sautéed onion, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.

Mix well and form medium-sized patties.

Place the patties in a baking dish and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until fully cooked through. You can also cook them in a light tomato sauce for a softer, more comforting texture.

These hearty patties make an excellent family meal and pair well with vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes.

A Simple Way to Upgrade Leftover Rice

Rice patties are one of those recipes that prove simple ingredients can become something special. Whether you choose vegetables, cheese, or chicken, they offer an easy, budget-friendly meal that's comforting, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Once you try them, leftover rice may never go to waste again.