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
