These Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Tots are a fun twist on a classic snack! Made with creamy cottage cheese and healthy cauliflower, they’re both tasty and good for you.
They’re super easy to make, and they always disappear at my house in minutes. I love dipping them in my favorite sauce—just try not to eat them all at once! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star of the dish! Use fresh cauliflower for the best flavor and texture. Frozen cauliflower can work too; just make sure to thaw and drain it well to reduce moisture.
Cottage Cheese: I prefer small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture in the tots. If you’re dairy-free, silken tofu or a vegan cheese alternative can be good substitutes.
Cheddar and Parmesan: These cheeses add a nice flavor. Feel free to swap with any cheese you like! Mozzarella or nutritional yeast could be great options for a different taste or a vegan twist.
Breadcrumbs: I use panko for extra crunch, but you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option.
How Do I Get the Tots Crunchy on the Outside?
Getting that crispy texture is key to a perfect tot! You can achieve this by ensuring the cauliflower is well-drained after boiling. Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking the cauliflower, let it cool and then press it in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Form the mixture into evenly sized tots so they cook evenly.
- If baking, spray lightly with cooking oil to enhance crispiness. Flipping them halfway through helps both sides get brown.
- If frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in smaller batches for the best result.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously crunchy cauliflower tots every time!
Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Tots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup small curd cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking oil spray or 2 tbsp oil for pan frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15–20 minutes to bake or 10–15 minutes to fry. Plan for a total time of around 30–35 minutes to enjoy these delicious, cheesy cauliflower tots!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the tots. If you’re frying, get a skillet ready over medium heat with a little oil.
2. Cook the Cauliflower:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. Drain the cauliflower and let it cool for a bit.
3. Process the Cauliflower:
Using a food processor or a grater, finely pulse or grate the cooled cauliflower until it resembles rice or fine crumbs. This helps form the tots nicely.
4. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cauliflower with cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion (if using), eggs, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed together and holds its shape.
5. Shape the Tots:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small balls or ovals about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. This will be your cute little tots!
6. Bake or Fry the Tots:
For baking: Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Place the tots on the tray and spray or brush them lightly with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and slightly crispy.
For frying: Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the tots in batches and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, drain them on paper towels.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the tots with fresh parsley if you like. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or garlic aioli, and enjoy these tasty, cheesy treats as a healthy snack or side dish!
Enjoy your delicious Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Tots!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just ensure it’s completely thawed and well-drained to remove excess moisture. Squeeze out any additional water using a clean kitchen towel before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Egg in This Recipe?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water, let sit until thickened), or 1/4 cup of plain yogurt. Just know that these may slightly alter the texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Tots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness, or microwave them for quick reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Mixture?
Absolutely! You can mix in finely grated carrots, zucchini, or even chopped spinach to boost the veggie content. Just make sure to adjust the moisture levels accordingly to keep the texture right!
