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Cauliflower Tots Recipe

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These Cauliflower Tots are crispy and golden outside with a tender, cheesy center packed with savory flavor. Baked instead of deep fried, they make an easy appetizer, snack, or vegetable side dish perfect for dipping.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until just tender, taking care not to overcook them.
  3. Drain the cauliflower thoroughly and let it cool slightly. Finely chop it or pulse briefly in a food processor until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Place the chopped cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
  5. Transfer the cauliflower to a large mixing bowl and add the cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Stir until thoroughly combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
  7. Scoop small portions of the mixture and firmly shape each portion into a compact tot.
  8. Arrange the tots on the prepared baking sheet with space between them. Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, carefully turning halfway through, until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
  10. Let the cauliflower tots cool for a few minutes before serving warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Squeezing as much moisture as possible from the cooked cauliflower is important for tots that hold together and become crisp.
  • Frozen cauliflower can be used, but drain and squeeze it especially thoroughly after cooking.
  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs or lightly coat the shaped tots with additional panko before baking.
  • For a spicy variation, add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or finely chopped jalapeño.
  • For air fryer tots, lightly spray with oil and cook in a single layer at about 375°F (190°C) until crisp and golden, turning during cooking.
  • Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooked and cooled tots for up to 2 months and reheat directly from frozen.
  • Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or an air fryer for the crispiest texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cauliflower-tots-recipe/