If you’re on the lookout for a delightful, crunchy snack that’s both wholesome and irresistibly tasty, look no further than this Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe. These crispy little bites take the humble cauliflower and elevate it with Parmesan cheese, a touch of garlic, and a perfectly crispy finish thanks to the air fryer. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a side dish, or a healthy snack, these tots deliver comforting flavors and a satisfying crunch with every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time—ideal for busy days when you want something quick but special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe relies on a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully to create a savory, textured snack. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add flavor, structure, or color, keeping the tots irresistibly cheesy, crispy, and tender inside.
- Cauliflower head (about 4 cups, cut into florets): The star ingredient, providing the base with its mild flavor and nutritious punch.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Adds a nutty, sharp taste and helps bind the tots together perfectly while boosting crispiness.
- Large egg (1): Acts as a natural binder, holding the mixture together without needing extra fillers.
- Breadcrumbs (⅓ cup): Essential for structure and crunch, ensuring the tots hold their shape and crisp up well.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate cauliflower taste.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Lends a subtle, savory depth that complements both the cauliflower and cheese.
- Chopped parsley (for serving): Not just for color—fresh parsley brightens up the dish with a hint of herbaceous freshness.
How to Make Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe
Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower
Start by placing the cauliflower florets in a pot with about one inch of water at the bottom. Put a lid on and cook over medium heat for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. This step softens the cauliflower perfectly, making it easy to rice and form into tots later.
Step 2: Rice and Drain the Cauliflower
Once the cauliflower is tender, drain out any remaining water and transfer it to a food processor. Pulse just enough to turn the florets into cauliflower “rice” – small, grain-like pieces that will blend beautifully with the rest of the ingredients. To avoid watery tots, wrap the riced cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Place the drained cauliflower into a large mixing bowl, then add the Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and garlic powder. Mix everything until fully incorporated. The mixture should start to clump up, which indicates it’s ready to be shaped. This combination creates a perfect batter that’s flavorful and easy to handle.
Step 4: Shape the Tots
Take about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it into a tight ball. Then gently pinch the sides to form the classic oval tot shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used. This shaping is fun and ensures even cooking and that satisfying tot look we all love.
Step 5: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking, then arrange the tots in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the tots are golden brown and perfectly crispy on the outside while tender inside.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot tots. A little extra grated Parmesan also adds a lovely finish. These garnishes bring bright, fresh notes and a touch of elegance to this humble dish.
Side Dishes
These cauliflower tots pair wonderfully with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even a tangy coleslaw. Their versatility makes them an ideal companion for light lunches or more substantial dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving the tots with an assortment of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic ketchup. You can also nestle them on a platter surrounded by fresh veggie sticks or drizzle with a little lemony yogurt sauce for a fresh twist. They’re perfect for game days or casual gatherings, making every bite an adventure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the cooled tots in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy that delicious crunch again without cooking from scratch.
Freezing
For longer storage, flash freeze the shaped tots on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months, making it easy to prepare ahead for a quick snack or side anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the tots back in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This method brings back the crispy exterior and warm center without sogginess, unlike reheating in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
While fresh cauliflower is ideal for ricing and draining properly, you can use thawed frozen cauliflower if you squeeze out all excess water thoroughly. Just be cautious, as frozen cauliflower may yield slightly softer tots.
Do I need to use Parmesan cheese, or can I use another cheese?
Parmesan adds a unique sharpness and helps crispen the tots. You can experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino, but avoid soft cheeses as they won’t provide the right texture.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake these tots in a conventional oven at 425°F for about 20 to 25 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning halfway through. The air fryer just speeds up cooking time and enhances crispiness.
How do I make these tots gluten-free?
Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This keeps the texture intact while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I add other seasonings or vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary, spices such as smoked paprika, or finely chopped spinach for a colorful and flavorful twist.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe is one of those wonderfully satisfying dishes that feels indulgent while sneaking in some veggies. The crispy, cheesy bites make a fantastic snack or side that will charm the whole family. I hope you try making them soon—you’ll find that these tots deliver on flavor, ease, and fun every single time.
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Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy and delicious Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots are made with homemade riced cauliflower, parmesan cheese, and seasoned breadcrumbs. A healthier alternative to traditional tots, they are air fried to perfection for a golden, crunchy exterior and tender inside, making them a perfect appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cauliflower head cut into small florets (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Olive oil spray for air fryer basket
Instructions
- Cook Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets in a large pot with about 1 inch of water at the bottom. Cover with a lid and cook over medium heat for 15–18 minutes until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
- Rice Cauliflower: Drain the water and transfer the cooked cauliflower to a food processor. Pulse several times until the cauliflower is finely riced.
- Remove Moisture: Transfer the riced cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy tots.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained riced cauliflower, grated parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and garlic powder. Stir the mixture well until it forms a uniform, slightly sticky mixture that starts to clump together.
- Shape Tots: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and form into tight balls. Pinch the sides of each ball to shape them into long oval tots. Continue until all mixture is used.
- Prepare Air Fryer: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the cauliflower tots in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Air Fry: Cook the tots at 400°F (204°C) for 10–12 minutes. Flip or shake halfway if necessary for even browning, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Garnish the hot cauliflower tots with chopped parsley and an optional sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the riced cauliflower to ensure crispy tots.
- Breadcrumb quantity can be adjusted for firmer or lighter texture.
- If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the cooked cauliflower or mash it thoroughly.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
