When I first tried making these Cauliflower Tots, it was a rainy day, and I was hunting for a comforting snack that wouldn’t weigh me down. The idea bloomed after I heard my friend rave about her kids devouring veggie-based dishes without complaint. Surprisingly, I discovered that cauliflowers can transform into irresistible, bite-sized delights that are both crispy and cheesy!
With just a few common ingredients, you’ll achieve an appetizer that not only impresses but also leaves you feeling good about snacking. Whether you’re serving them as party hors d’oeuvres or as a fun side to your main meal, these tots are sure to catch the attention of everyone at the table. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to whip up—20 minutes from start to finish—and perfect for breaking free from the fast-food rut. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that reimagines one of America’s favorite treats!
Why are Cauliflower Tots a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Bursting with cheesy goodness, these tots provide a rich taste that will satisfy any craving.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re perfect for that late-night snack or when you have guests on the way.
Healthy Twist: Enjoy all the comfort without the guilt, thanks to wholesome ingredients.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist these veggie-packed bites!
Versatile Use: Serve as a side, snack, or party food—these tots fit any occasion!
Advanced Tip: If you’re curious about more veggie-centric dishes, check out our delightful vegetable fritters for another great option!
Cauliflower Tots Ingredients
For the Tots
• 1 1/2 lb cauliflower – Riced cauliflower adds a delightful, low-carb base that’s perfect for creating your tasty tots.
• 1/4 cup avocado oil – This healthy oil helps achieve that crispy texture; feel free to use any cooking oil you have on hand.
• 1 large egg – This binds everything together, ensuring your tots hold their shape while cooking.
• 1 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese – Melty mozzarella adds a rich flavor and gooey texture that makes these Cauliflower Tots irresistibly cheesy!
• 2 cloves garlic (minced, optional) – For those who love an extra kick, garlic elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
• 3/4 tsp sea salt – A touch of salt enhances all the flavors, making each bite simply divine.
How to Make Cauliflower Tots
-
Sauté Cauliflower: Stir fry the riced cauliflower in 2 tablespoons of oil using a large sauté pan or wok over medium-high heat. Cook until it’s soft, lightly browned, and without any moisture left in the pan—about 5-7 minutes.
-
Whisk Ingredients: While the cauliflower is cooking, whisk the egg in a large bowl. Then, mix in the mozzarella, minced garlic (if using), and sea salt. This combination creates a creamy base for your tots.
-
Mix & Combine: Once the cauliflower rice is perfectly sautéed, immediately stir it into the cheese mixture while it’s still hot. The heat will help melt the cheese and make your mixture nice and sticky.
-
Shape Tots: Use a small cookie scoop to gather balls of the “dough.” Form them into small, tater tot-sized patties, gently flattening each one to ensure even cooking.
-
Prepare to Fry: Wipe the pan with a paper towel to get rid of any leftover cauliflower bits, making sure your tots won’t stick.
-
Heat Oil & Fry: In the same pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the tater tots in a single layer and fry for about 2 minutes until golden brown on the bottom. Flip them and repeat until they’re golden and crispy on both sides. Transfer them to paper towels to drain.
-
Repeat Cooking: Continue frying the remaining tater tots, adding more oil between batches if needed, until all are cooked to crispy perfection.
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cauliflower Tots?
Looking to create a memorable meal around these delightful snacks? Here are some perfect pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
-
Zesty Dipping Sauces: A tangy ranch or garlic aioli complements the cheesy flavor, adding a delightful zing with every bite. A vibrant dip enhances the overall experience by providing an exciting flavor contrast!
-
Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the tots. The salad’s crisp texture will serve as a perfect palate cleanser!
-
Savory Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds depth and earthiness, creating a wholesome, colorful side that complements your cauliflower treats. Each bite offers a delightful contrast in flavor and texture!
-
Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing wraps the spicy, cheesy tots in warm comfort, providing a delightful combination of flavors that brings back nostalgic memories. Dipping the crispy tots into the soup takes it to another level!
-
Garlic Breadsticks: These fluffy, buttery breadsticks make an irresistible accompaniment, perfect for soaking up extra dipping sauces and balancing the meal with their satisfying texture. They bring a comforting element that everyone loves!
-
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink with a hint of citrus brightness adds a lively note to your meal. The effervescence balances the richness of the food, making each mouthful even more enjoyable!
Make Ahead Options
These Cauliflower Tots are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cauliflower mixture up to 24 hours in advance. After mixing the sautéed riced cauliflower with the egg, mozzarella, garlic, and salt, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, shape the tots right before frying—this ensures they stay fresh and crispy. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just scoop and fry straight from the fridge. You’ll have scrumptious, homemade Cauliflower Tots on your table in no time, giving you delicious results without the last-minute hustle!
Cauliflower Tots Variations
Feel free to spice up your Cauliflower Tots with these fun and tasty ideas!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute mozzarella with dairy-free cheese to create a vegan-friendly version that still melts beautifully.
-
Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mixture for a thrill that’ll ignite your taste buds!
-
Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil to elevate the flavor profile. Their bright taste brings a refreshing twist to every bite.
-
Crunchy Texture: Mix in breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for a delightful crunch on the outside, adding a new layer of texture to your tots.
-
Switch the Veggies: Swap half the cauliflower with riced broccoli or carrots for more color and a subtle sweetness your family will love.
-
Onion Flavor: Sauté finely chopped onions along with the cauliflower for an aromatic and sweet undertone that enhances the overall taste.
-
Savory Addition: Mix in some cooked bacon bits or sausage for a heartier version that packs a flavorful punch and satisfies hearty appetites.
-
Zesty Citrus: A bit of lemon or lime zest in the mixture will add a bright, refreshing note that complements the richness of the cheese.
Expert Tips for Cauliflower Tots
-
Ricing Cauliflower: Make sure to rice the cauliflower evenly to ensure consistent cooking and a uniform texture in your Cauliflower Tots.
-
Moisture Control: Keep an eye on moisture! Thoroughly sauté the cauliflower until no liquid remains to avoid soggy tots that won’t hold their shape.
-
Cheese Choice: Opt for fresh mozzarella for a gooey texture, but pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch. Just avoid low-fat varieties as they melt differently.
-
Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the tots; if not, they may become greasy rather than crispy.
-
Cooking in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and lead to uneven cooking.
How to Store and Freeze Cauliflower Tots
Room Temperature: Store leftover Cauliflower Tots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. However, it’s best to refrigerate them if not eaten right away.
Fridge: Keep the tots in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for restored crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked or cooked Cauliflower Tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat cooked tots in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Cauliflower Tots Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cauliflower for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cauliflower, look for heads that are firm and compact, with tightly closed florets. Avoid any with dark spots or discoloration, as these indicate overripeness. A creamy white color is ideal, and the leaves should be green and fresh.
How should I store leftover Cauliflower Tots?
For optimal freshness, store leftover Cauliflower Tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them from becoming stale. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that lovely crispiness.
Can I freeze Cauliflower Tots, and how?
Very! To freeze your Cauliflower Tots, first arrange the uncooked or cooked tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. This method prevents them from sticking together. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my Cauliflower Tots are too mushy?
If you find that your Cauliflower Tots turned out mushy, it likely means that there was excess moisture in the cauliflower. To fix this for the next batch, ensure you sauté the riced cauliflower thoroughly, allowing enough time for it to cook until completely dry. If they do turn out soggy, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help them firm up.
Are Cauliflower Tots suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, absolutely! Cauliflower Tots are naturally gluten-free since they are made with wholesome ingredients without any added flours or grains. However, always check your cheese and oil brands for any hidden gluten ingredients if you have serious allergies or intolerances.
Can I make these Cauliflower Tots vegan?
Certainly! If you want to make these tots vegan, you can substitute a flax egg for the regular egg. To make a flax egg, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes gelatinous. Additionally, you can replace the mozzarella with a vegan cheese option for that cheesy goodness without the dairy!
Vibrant Cauliflower Tots That’ll Make You Forget Fast Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Stir fry the riced cauliflower in 2 tablespoons of oil using a large sauté pan or wok over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Whisk the egg in a large bowl, then mix in the mozzarella, minced garlic (if using), and sea salt.
- Combine the sautéed cauliflower with the cheese mixture while hot.
- Form the mixture into small, tater tot-sized patties.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the pan and fry the tots until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
- Continue frying the remaining tots in batches.