These cauliflower tots are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a satisfying texture in every bite. The air fryer gives them a golden crust with very little oil, making them a healthier option than deep-fried snacks. They’re easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and a great way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and delicious form. Plus, they pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cauliflower florets
Eggs
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Breadcrumbs
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Directions
Begin by steaming or microwaving the cauliflower florets until they are tender. Allow them to cool slightly.
Place the cooked cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Removing excess water helps the tots hold their shape and become crispier.
Finely chop or pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles small crumbs.
Transfer the cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add the eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix until everything is well combined.
Form the mixture into small tot-shaped cylinders using your hands.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the tots in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
Air fry for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through cooking, until the tots are golden and crispy.
Spicy Cauliflower Tots Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy version.
Herb Cauliflower Tots Mix in fresh herbs like dill, basil, or chives for extra flavor.
Mozzarella Cauliflower Tots Replace cheddar with mozzarella for a softer, stretchier texture.
Gluten-Free Tots Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Vegan Cauliflower Tots Replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cauliflower tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes until they are crispy again.
They can also be reheated in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make them soft.
You can freeze uncooked tots on a baking tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook them directly from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
Can I make cauliflower tots without an air fryer?
Yes, they can be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 18 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Why are my cauliflower tots falling apart?
This usually happens if there is too much moisture in the cauliflower. Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but thaw it completely and remove as much moisture as possible before using.
What dipping sauces go well with cauliflower tots?
They pair well with ketchup, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or marinara sauce.
How do I make the tots crispier?
Make sure the cauliflower is well drained and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, the mixture can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking.
Are cauliflower tots healthy?
They are generally healthier than traditional potato tots because they contain more vegetables and are cooked with less oil.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, finely grated carrots or zucchini can be added, but be sure to remove excess moisture.
Do I have to use cheese?
Cheese helps bind the tots and adds flavor, but dairy-free alternatives can be used.
How do I keep the tots from sticking in the air fryer?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil before adding the tots.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots are a delicious and lighter alternative to classic tots. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they make a fun snack or side dish that’s easy to prepare. Whether served with dipping sauces or alongside your favorite meal, these veggie-packed tots are a tasty way to enjoy cauliflower.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Tots are crispy, cheesy, and healthy bite-sized snacks made with tender cauliflower, breadcrumbs, and simple seasonings. These easy air fryer tots are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or kid-friendly snack with a golden crunchy outside and soft, flavorful inside.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Total Time:32 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Appetizer / Side Dish
Method:Air Fryer
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 eggs
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Steam or microwave the cauliflower florets until tender. Let them cool slightly.
Place the cooked cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Finely chop the cauliflower or pulse it in a food processor until it resembles small crumbs.
Transfer the cauliflower to a mixing bowl. Add eggs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
Shape the mixture into small tot-shaped cylinders using your hands.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the tots in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Squeezing out excess moisture is key to keeping the tots from falling apart.Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for the crispiest results.These tots can be frozen before cooking and air fried directly from frozen with a few extra minutes added.For extra flavor, add cayenne, chili flakes, or fresh herbs.
