Name: Cauliflower Tots Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups cauliflower florets (from 1 head of cauliflower); 1/2 onion, grated; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup blanched almond flour; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Avocado oil cooking spray; Ketchup, for serving (optional)

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If you’re on the hunt for a delightful snack that manages to be both comforting and surprisingly healthy, this Cauliflower Tots Recipe is destined to become one of your go-to treats. These bite-sized nuggets have all the crispy, golden charm of traditional tater tots but are made with tender cauliflower, cheeses, and a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a harmony of flavor and texture. Perfect as a party appetizer, a kid-friendly lunchbox addition, or a tasty snack for yourself, these cauliflower tots bring a fresh twist to a classic favorite in the most irresistible way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with a thick, crumbly mixture that is mostly pale beige with bits of orange mixed throughout, resting on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl, a black spatula with a wooden handle is partially buried in the mixture, held by a woman's hand, suggesting stirring or mixing action. The texture of the mixture looks dense but soft, with some small clumps and a rough surface. A folded, light gray cloth is nearby on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering just a few wholesome and easy-to-find ingredients is all it takes to whip up this delightful Cauliflower Tots Recipe. Each component plays a special role: from adding creaminess and tang to holding everything together, these ingredients are simple yet essential.

Cauliflower florets (4 cups): The star of the show, providing a mild flavor and a tender base for these tots.
Large egg (1): Acts as the perfect binder to keep your tots together while baking.
Grated onion (1/2): Infuses subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
Shredded parmesan (1/4 cup): Offers a sharp, salty kick to elevate the overall taste.
Shredded cheddar (1/4 cup): Brings creamy richness and the nostalgic note of classic tots.
Blanched almond flour (1/4 cup): Adds a light texture and helps keep the tots crisp.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
Avocado oil cooking spray: Ensures that golden, crisp finish without excess oil.
Ketchup (optional): A tangy dip that pairs perfectly with the warm, cheesy tots.

How to Make Cauliflower Tots Recipe

Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—this ensures easy cleanup and perfect tots every time. Bring some water to a boil, then steam your cauliflower florets for about five minutes until they’re tender enough to pierce with a fork but not falling apart. Steaming keeps the cauliflower moist and soft, which is essential for that melt-in-your-mouth inside texture.

Step 2: Process and Squeeze Out the Moisture

Working in batches, pop the steamed cauliflower into a food processor and pulse until it breaks down into a fine meal. This texture is key for shaping your tots. Transfer this chopped cauliflower onto a clean, thin dish towel or cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible over the sink. This step might feel a little tedious but trust me, getting rid of extra moisture guarantees your cauliflower tots will crisp up beautifully instead of turning soggy.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, combine your cauliflower meal with the egg, grated onion, shredded parmesan and cheddar, almond flour, salt, and pepper. Use a rubber spatula to mix thoroughly, making sure every bit is well incorporated. Let the mixture rest for five minutes—this short pause helps the ingredients meld and gives the almond flour time to soak in some moisture, making it easier to shape the tots.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Tots

Spray your baking sheet generously with avocado oil cooking spray to prevent sticking. Using your hands, form your mixture into small “tater” tot shapes—about one inch long and half an inch wide—placing them about an inch apart on the baking sheet. Don’t forget to spray the tops of the tots for that crisp golden exterior. Bake these beauties for 20 minutes, then flip them carefully and bake for another 10 minutes until every side is delightfully golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, sprinkle your cauliflower tots with a little extra sea salt while they’re still warm to enhance their flavor. Serve immediately alongside some ketchup for dipping, or get creative with your favorite sauces. The warm, cheesy, crisp-on-the-outside and tender-on-the-inside texture will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Serve Cauliflower Tots Recipe

Small, golden brown fried nuggets are placed in a crumpled white paper-lined white bowl. The nuggets have a crunchy texture, with some darker browned spots and small red seasoning flakes scattered on top. To the left inside the bowl, there is a small white round dish of dark red sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and in the background, a glass with an amber-colored drink is slightly out of focus. A woman's hand is partially visible near the bottom right of the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your tots from delicious to downright irresistible. Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and herbal brightness. A light dusting of smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky kick that pairs nicely with the nutty parmesan and cheddar. If you want a touch of heat, a drizzle of sriracha mayo can turn these tots into a spicy delight.

Side Dishes

Cauliflower tots make a fantastic companion to a variety of side dishes. Pair them with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. They also go wonderfully with grilled chicken or a veggie burger for a well-rounded meal. When it comes to dipping sauces, don’t hesitate to try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a tangy honey mustard for variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond serving these as mere finger food? Try placing a handful of cauliflower tots on top of a bowl of creamy mac and cheese or sprinkle them over a baked potato for extra crunch and flavor. You can also skewer them with colorful toothpicks to make fun party appetizers, or cram them into wraps with fresh veggies and your favorite sauces for a quick lunch that feels special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover cauliflower tots, no worries—they store really well! Just place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to ten days. This makes them a perfect snack to enjoy throughout the week or to pack for lunches.

Freezing

To freeze these tots, first freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cauliflower tots can last up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, there’s no need to thaw; just bake or broil them straight from the freezer to maintain that golden crispness.

Reheating

Reheating your cauliflower tots couldn’t be easier. Spread them out on a baking sheet and pop them under the broiler for a couple of minutes until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method brings back that fresh-from-the-oven magic better than the microwave, which can sometimes make them lose their delightful crunch.

FAQs

Can I make cauliflower tots without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free option; just add a bit more almond flour or another binder like ground flaxseed mixed with water to help with texture and hold.

What’s the best way to get the cauliflower dry enough?

After steaming and processing, wrapping the cauliflower in a clean thin towel and squeezing firmly over the sink is the key. The drier the cauliflower, the crispier your tots will get in the oven.

Can I use another type of flour instead of almond flour?

Absolutely! If almond flour isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with gluten-free flour or even panko breadcrumbs for a different texture, but keep in mind it may change the flavor slightly.

Are these cauliflower tots kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the familiar taste and shape of tots, and these sneak in some veggies in a way that’s fun and tasty without feeling like a compromise.

Can I make these tots in an air fryer?

Definitely. Arrange the formed tots in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 375 degrees F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispness.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving a nostalgic favorite or looking to add more veggies to your snack time, this Cauliflower Tots Recipe has you covered with its perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and wholesome goodness. I encourage you to give it a try and discover just how delicious cauliflower can be when transformed into these golden nuggets of joy. Happy cooking and happy snacking!