Description
Craving a crispy snack that’s both delicious and nutritious? These Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Tots are the perfect guilt-free treat! They’re golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with flavor. Packed with protein from cottage cheese and fiber from cauliflower, these tots are a wholesome alternative to traditional tater tots. Ideal for snacking, lunchboxes, or a fun side dish!
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Ingredients
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2 cups cauliflower florets (steamed and chopped)
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¾ cup low-fat cottage cheese
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1 large egg
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb version)
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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¼ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
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Olive oil spray (for crisping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower
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Steam or microwave cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 8–10 minutes.
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Let cool slightly, then finely chop or pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
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Transfer to a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
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In a large bowl, combine chopped cauliflower, cottage cheese, egg, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley.
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Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should be moist but hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
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Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture.
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Form each scoop into a mini tot shape (oval or cylindrical).
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Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or directly in your air fryer basket.
Step 4: Cook the Tots
To Bake:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Lightly spray tots with olive oil.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
To Air Fry:
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Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Spray tots with olive oil and place in a single layer.
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Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crisp and golden.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
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Let the tots cool for a couple of minutes after cooking.
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Serve with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Dry Cauliflower is Key – Squeeze out moisture to avoid soggy tots.
Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese for Richer Flavor – But low-fat also works well.
Get Creative – Add a pinch of paprika, chili flakes, or Italian herbs for variety.
Chill if Needed – If your mixture feels soft, refrigerate for 20 minutes to help with shaping.
Double the Batch – Freeze extras for a ready-to-cook snack anytime.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American