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Looking for a fun and healthy snack? These Cheesy Cauliflower Tater Tots are easy to make and taste amazing! Packed with cheesy goodness and simple ingredients, they offer a tasty twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re a cauli-fan or just want a new snack, these tots will satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive in and whip up these crispy delights that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: These cheesy cauliflower tater tots are a guilt-free twist on a classic snack, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without the extra carbs.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and quick steps, these tater tots come together rapidly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Side Dish: They pair well with various dipping sauces, making them a fun addition to any meal or party platter.
- Kid-Friendly: These tots are a great way to sneak in vegetables for picky eaters, ensuring that even the littlest ones enjoy their greens!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)
Seasoning Ingredients
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Miscellaneous Ingredients
– 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Olive oil spray
For these cheesy cauliflower tater tots, the main players are simple. The cauliflower gives a great base. It adds fiber and keeps the tots light. Cheddar cheese brings a rich, creamy flavor. Almond flour or breadcrumbs help bind everything together.
Seasoning makes a big difference too. Garlic powder adds depth. Onion powder brings a sweet note, and paprika gives a mild kick. Salt and pepper round out the flavors, making each bite delicious.
Don’t forget the green onions! They add a fresh crunch and bright color. The egg acts as a glue, holding the mixture together. Finally, a light spray of olive oil helps create a crispy outer layer when baked.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to make a tasty snack that everyone will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps the tots bake evenly and prevents sticking.
2. Steam cauliflower florets: Cut your cauliflower into small florets. Steam them for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. You can use a pot or microwave for steaming. Once steamed, drain the florets and let them cool for a few minutes.
Mixing Steps
1. Drain and dry cauliflower: Take the cooled cauliflower and put it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is key for crispy tots.
2. Combine ingredients in a mixing bowl: In a large bowl, mix the drained cauliflower with shredded cheese, almond flour, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Add egg to the mixture: Pour in the beaten egg and mix again. You want a dough-like consistency that holds together well.
Shaping and Baking Steps
1. Shape the mixture into tots: With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into tots, about 1 to 1.5 inches long. Place each tot onto your prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake until golden brown and crispy: Lightly spray the tops of the tots with olive oil. This will help them crisp up. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.
Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these tasty bites!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Cooking
How to steam cauliflower correctly
To steam cauliflower, place florets in a pot with a small amount of water. Cover the pot tightly. Heat it on medium until steam forms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until tender. You can also use a microwave. Just place the florets in a bowl with a bit of water, cover it, and microwave for 5 minutes.
Importance of drying the cauliflower
Drying the cauliflower is key to getting good texture. After steaming, let it cool briefly. Then, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze to remove moisture. This step helps your tater tots stay crispy when baked.
Achieving Perfect Texture
Tips for crispy tots
For crispy tater tots, use a light spray of olive oil before baking. This helps them brown nicely. Also, make sure they are spread out on the baking sheet. Give them space to get air and crisp up.
Adjusting baking time for preferred doneness
Baking time can change based on your oven and preference. Start with 20 minutes at 400°F. Check for golden brown color. If you want them crispier, add a few more minutes. Just remember to flip them halfway for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Best dips to pair
Serve your cheesy cauliflower tater tots with yummy dips. Ranch dressing adds a cool, creamy touch. Sriracha mayo gives a spicy kick. You can also try a simple garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt dip.
Creative plating ideas
Make your serving look fun! Arrange the tater tots on a colorful platter. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley. You can even add small bowls of dips on the side for a nice touch. This makes it look fancy and inviting!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower will yield the best flavor and texture for your tater tots. Avoid using frozen, as it may contain excess moisture.
- Perfectly Shape the Tots: Wet your hands slightly before shaping the mixture into tots to prevent sticking and to help them hold their shape better.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar cheese is delicious, feel free to mix in other types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the tater tots immediately after baking while they are still hot and crispy.

Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the cheese in this recipe. Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella or pepper jack. Each cheese brings a new flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use almond flour or chickpea flour instead of breadcrumbs. Both options keep your tater tots light and tasty.
Flavor Additions
Want a spicy kick? Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mix. For a fresh taste, chop up some spinach or bell peppers and stir them in. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also give your tots extra flavor. Experiment with your favorite spices and veggies to make this dish your own.
Cooking Methods
I love using an air fryer for these cheesy cauliflower tater tots. Air frying gives them a crispy outside and a soft inside. If you prefer baking, that works too! Just make sure to flip them halfway through. For a different texture, consider deep frying. This method makes them extra crunchy, but be mindful of the oil. Each method brings out unique textures and flavors. Try them all to find your favorite!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cheesy cauliflower tater tots fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers both work well. Store them in the fridge right away to keep them safe. Make sure to let them cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup inside.
Reheating Suggestions
To enjoy your tater tots again, the oven is best for reheating. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tots on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quick heat-up. If you want to freeze them, do so before cooking. Freeze in a single layer, then put them in a bag. To use, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Storage Duration
In the fridge, your tater tots will last up to 3 days. For the best taste, eat them within this time. If you freeze them after cooking, they can last for about a month. For best results, eat them sooner rather than later. If you freeze them before cooking, they are good for about 2 months.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prep these tater tots ahead of time. Shape the tots and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy to have a quick snack ready when you need it.
Are these tater tots healthy?
Absolutely! These cheesy cauliflower tater tots use cauliflower, which is low in calories and high in fiber. The cheddar cheese adds flavor and protein, while almond flour keeps them gluten-free. This snack is a tasty way to enjoy veggies.
Troubleshooting Tips
What to do if the mixture is too wet?
If your mixture feels too wet, add a little more almond flour or breadcrumbs. This will help absorb extra moisture. You can also let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow it to thicken.
How to fix burnt taters?
If your tater tots burn, check your oven temperature. It might be too high. Lower the temperature next time. If they burn on the outside but are raw inside, try flipping them and baking for a shorter time.
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving
One serving of these cheesy cauliflower tater tots has about 150 calories.
Breakdown of macronutrients
– Protein: 5g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fiber: 3g
These numbers can vary based on specific ingredients used. Always check your brands for exact values.
Making cauliflower tater tots offers a tasty twist on a classic snack. We’ve covered essential ingredients, from cauliflower to spices. You learned how to steam, mix, and shape your tots for that perfect crunch. I shared tips for storage and reheating. Explore variations to fit your taste.
In the end, these tots can be a fun and healthy treat. Try them out and enjoy experimenting with flavors! You’ll impress family and friends with your new skill
Cheesy Cauliflower Tater Tots
Delicious and crispy cauliflower tots packed with cheesy goodness.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)
- 0.25 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- as needed olive oil spray
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Steam the cauliflower florets in a pot or microwave until tender (about 5-7 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
Once cooled, transfer the cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cauliflower, shredded cheese, almond flour, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until everything is fully incorporated, forming a dough-like consistency.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small tot shapes (around 1-1.5 inches in length) and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray the tots with olive oil to ensure they get golden and crispy.
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serve on a platter, garnished with fresh green onions or parsley, with a side of dipping sauce.
Keyword appetizer, cauliflower, cheesy, tater tots
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