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Jessica T. Brown

Crispy Cheesy Cauliflower Tots

Golden, cheesy, and low-carb, these Cheesy Cauliflower Tots are an easy, nutritious snack or side dish.
Crispy outside, tender inside, and packed with flavor, they are perfect for quick meals or family-friendly snacks.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 10 tots
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Gluten-Free
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups riced cauliflower about 1 large head
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Food Processor
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 large baking sheet
  • 1 set measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches an even temperature for baking.
    Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure the edges are flat and secure, which prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
    Set the tray aside within easy reach, so you can place the tots on it immediately after forming.
  2. Rice the Cauliflower: Chop the cauliflower into small, even florets and transfer them into a food processor.
    Pulse just a few times until the cauliflower resembles fine rice, being careful not to over-process into a mushy consistency; this ensures the tots maintain their structure and crispiness.
  3. Cook the Cauliflower Rice: Place the riced cauliflower into a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap.
    Microwave for 10 minutes until slightly tender, then allow it to cool for about 5 minutes so it is safe to handle and won’t melt the cheese when mixed.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooled cauliflower rice into a large mixing bowl, then add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, eggs, salt, and pepper.
    Use a spatula to mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined into a sticky, cohesive mixture that can be easily formed into tots.
  5. Shape the Tots: Using approximately one tablespoon of the cauliflower mixture, roll and shape it into a small, cylindrical tot with your hands, ensuring a compact form to prevent crumbling.
    Place each tot carefully onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each one to allow air circulation and even baking.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through for consistent browning.
    For an extra golden, crispy exterior, finish the tots under the broiler for 1–2 minutes while watching closely to prevent burning.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the baked tots from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the tray for a few minutes.
    Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as pizza sauce, ketchup, ranch, or sour cream, and enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and wholesome snack.

Notes

  • If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely grate the raw cauliflower using the coarse side of a box grater.
  • For those without a microwave, steam or boil the cauliflower until tender, then rice it manually or with a processor.
  • You can freeze unbaked tots by placing them on a lined baking sheet, covering with plastic wrap, and storing in an airtight container. Thaw on the counter for 1–2 hours before baking.
  • Adjust the seasonings to taste; smoked paprika or cayenne can add a nice kick.
  • For extra crispiness, lightly brush or spray the tots with olive oil before baking.