Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots

Cauliflower is no longer just a side dish or a veggie you barely notice on your plate. With this Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots recipe, you’ll fall in love with this versatile vegetable all over again. Perfect for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, these cheesy cauliflower tots offer the crispy, cheesy goodness you crave—without the guilt of traditional tater tots. Made with a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for a quick snack or a delicious side to any meal.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots

Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots are a game-changer for anyone who loves the taste of tater tots but wants a healthier, low-carb alternative. These tots are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, thanks to the perfect balance of cauliflower, sharp cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. What’s even better is that they are gluten-free and low in carbs, making them a great choice for anyone following a Keto or low-carb diet. Whether you serve them as a side dish, a snack, or as part of a kid-friendly meal, these tots are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots

• Cauliflower: The base of this recipe, offering a mild flavor and soft texture once baked.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy taste that holds the tots together.
• Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the flavor and adds a bit of saltiness.
• Almond Flour: Helps bind the ingredients while keeping the recipe low-carb and gluten-free.
• Vege-Sal or Salt: For seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Spike Seasoning: Adds a unique blend of spices that complement the cauliflower.
• Black Pepper: For a bit of heat and flavor enhancement.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients and helps the tots hold their shape while baking.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Cauliflower Rice: If you don’t have fresh cauliflower, you can use cauliflower rice as a shortcut. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture before mixing.
• Parmesan Alternatives: If you don’t have Parmesan, try other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino for a similar sharp taste.
• Almond Flour Substitutes: If you’re allergic to almonds, try coconut flour, though you may need to adjust the amount to get the right texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a mini muffin pan generously with non-stick spray.
2. Coarsely chop half a large head of cauliflower and microwave it in a bowl covered with plastic wrap for 2 minutes. Drain any water that collects in the bowl.
3. Use a food processor to chop the cauliflower into small pieces. Be careful not to puree it; you want a slightly chunky texture.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cauliflower with sharp cheddar cheese, coarsely grated Parmesan, almond flour, Vege-Sal, Spike Seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
5. Add one egg and stir until the mixture is coated.
6. Using a tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the mixture into the mini muffin pan, filling each compartment.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each tot over using a knife. Return the tots to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
8. Serve hot and enjoy these delicious cheesy bites!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots

• Draining the Cauliflower: Make sure you thoroughly drain the cauliflower after microwaving to avoid soggy tots. Excess moisture will prevent the tots from crisping up properly.
• Flipping with Ease: If the tots are sticking to the pan, try using a little extra non-stick spray or butter. You can also use a silicone muffin pan to make turning the tots easier.
• Adjusting Cooking Time: If you’re using a larger muffin tin, the cooking time may need to be increased as the tots will be thicker. Keep an eye on them and check for golden brown edges.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish sticks, or keto-friendly burgers. For a kid-friendly meal, serve them with a side of ketchup or ranch dressing. For a spicy twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a day or two and reheated in an air fryer to regain their crispiness.

Making It a Complete Low-Carb Meal

These cauliflower tots are already a low-carb delight, but you can take the meal to the next level by pairing them with other low-carb dishes like garlic lemon grilled chicken, air fryer chicken drumsticks, or keto chicken nuggets. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables for a nutrient-packed, satisfying meal.

With these Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots, you get a healthy, guilt-free snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding picky eaters, or just want something quick and easy, this recipe is sure to impress everyone who tries it. Enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness!

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Tots are the perfect healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional tater tots. Packed with cheesy goodness and a crispy exterior, these tots make an excellent snack or side dish for any meal. Whether you’re following a Keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet, this recipe fits seamlessly into your meal plan while delivering great taste. Plus, they’re easy to make, customizable with different seasonings, and ideal for families or gatherings. These tots are not only delicious but also offer a great way to sneak in some veggies, making them a hit with both adults and kids alike. Enjoy them hot, fresh from the oven, or store them for a tasty snack later!

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