Cauliflower Tots Air Fryer: 7 Reasons You’ll Love Them

Name: Cauliflower Tots Air Fryer: 7 Reasons You'll Love Them
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower head, riced; 1/2 cup shredded cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 19, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Have you ever stumbled upon a food that completely changes your perspective on healthy eating? For me, that was cauliflower. This versatile veggie is not just low in calories; it’s packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamins C and K. When I first discovered cauliflower tots, I was blown away! These crispy bites made in the air fryer are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing flavor. I remember the first time I made them for a gathering. Everyone thought they were traditional tater tots! It was such a hit, and I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip them up in my air fryer. Talk about a game-changer! The air fryer crisps them up beautifully while keeping them healthy—no deep frying needed. If you’re looking for a fun, guilt-free snack that’s bursting with flavor, trust me, these cauliflower tots are where it’s at!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why you’re going to fall head over heels for these cauliflower tots! First off, the air fryer makes everything so quick and easy. You can whip up a batch in just about 27 minutes, from prep to plate! Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional tater tots. With cauliflower as the star, you’re not just getting a tasty snack, but also a boost of fiber and essential vitamins.

And the flavor? Oh my goodness! The combination of riced cauliflower, cheese, and spices creates a crispy, cheesy goodness that’s utterly addictive. They’re perfect for munching on during movie night or serving as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cauliflower tots:

1 medium cauliflower head, riced
1/2 cup shredded cheese (I love using cheddar for that extra flavor!)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great for an extra crunch)
1 egg (this helps bind everything together)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that aromatic punch)
1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
Salt to taste (don’t be shy, a little seasoning goes a long way!)
Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is my favorite!)

These simple ingredients come together to create a snack that’s not only healthy but also packed with flavor. You’ll be amazed at how something so easy can taste so good!

How to Prepare Cauliflower Tots in the Air Fryer

Making cauliflower tots in the air fryer is a fun and straightforward process that yields crispy, delicious results every time. Follow these steps, and you’ll be munching on your tasty bites in no time!

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer preheating! It’s super important to preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) before cooking. This step ensures that the tots cook evenly and develop that perfect golden brown exterior. Just set the temperature and let it warm up while you prepare the cauliflower. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference!

Prepare the Cauliflower

Now onto the star of the show—cauliflower! Start by removing the leaves and the stem from a medium cauliflower head. Cut it into florets and toss them into your food processor. Pulse until you get a fine, rice-like consistency. This is crucial because the riced cauliflower is what gives the tots their texture. If you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry! You can also grate the cauliflower using a box grater. Just make sure you’re working with fresh cauliflower for the best flavor and moisture!

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your riced cauliflower with shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You’re looking for a texture that holds together but isn’t too wet—think of it like a thick dough. If it feels too crumbly, a splash of water or an extra egg can help bind it better. This mixture is where all the magic happens, so make sure every ingredient is well incorporated!

Forming the Tots

Time to shape those tots! Grab a small handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball, then gently flatten it to form a small tot shape. You want them to be about the size of a golf ball and not too thick, so they cook evenly. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—each tot has its own charm! Just make sure to keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking. Place the formed tots on a plate or baking sheet as you go.

Cooking Instructions

Once your tots are ready, arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded, as this will affect their crispiness. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, gently flip each tot to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary slightly in cooking times. Once done, get ready to enjoy your delicious cauliflower tots!

Tips for Success

To make your cauliflower tots even more amazing, I’ve got some pro tips to share! First off, make sure to really squeeze out any excess moisture from the riced cauliflower. This helps prevent soggy tots, which we definitely don’t want! You can do this by wrapping the riced cauliflower in a clean kitchen towel and giving it a good twist—trust me, it works wonders!

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not mix things up a bit? You can add in some finely chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh twist, or even experiment with different types of cheese. Parmesan adds a nice, nutty flavor! And for those who love a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can take your tots to the next level.

One common mistake to avoid is overcrowding the air fryer basket. If the tots are too close together, they won’t crisp up properly. Make sure to give them space to breathe! Lastly, don’t skip the flipping halfway through cooking. This little step ensures even browning and that perfectly crispy texture we all crave. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying your delicious cauliflower tots, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Each serving of these tasty bites is estimated to contain around 150 calories, with about 8 grams of fat and 7 grams of protein. You’ll also get 10 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber, making them a great guilt-free snack. Of course, these values can vary depending on your specific ingredients, so consider this a tasty estimate. Enjoy every crunchy bite knowing you’re fueling your body with healthy goodness!

FAQ Section

Got questions about these delicious cauliflower tots? I’m here to help! Let’s dive into some common queries.

How do I store leftover cauliflower tots?
Once you’ve enjoyed your cauliflower tots, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing up the container to prevent sogginess.

Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! You can mix in finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture first. You could also try adding some cooked bacon or sausage if you want a heartier version!

What can I use instead of cheese?
If you’re looking to make these tots dairy-free, you can substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, a dairy-free cheese can work too—just check the melting properties to ensure they bind well!

Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to ask! I love sharing tips to help you enjoy these tasty bites!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftover cauliflower tots is super easy! Once they’ve cooled completely, pop them into an airtight container and stash them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about three days, but I bet they won’t last that long because they’re just so tasty!

When it comes to reheating, the air fryer is your best friend for keeping that crispy texture intact. Just preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tots in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This way, they’ll come out warm and crispy, just like when you first made them! If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave, but be aware that this method might make them a bit soft. Enjoy those delicious bites again!

Serving Suggestions

These cauliflower tots are so versatile, they can shine on their own or be paired with some fantastic dips! If you’re looking for a classic combo, try serving them with a zesty marinara sauce or some tangy ranch dressing. The coolness of the ranch complements the warmth of the tots perfectly!

For a kick of flavor, a spicy sriracha mayo is a game changer. Just mix some mayonnaise with a splash of sriracha, and you’ve got yourself a creamy, spicy dip that’ll have everyone coming back for more. You can also whip up a simple garlic aioli for a gourmet touch—just blend some mayo with minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice!

And don’t forget about fresh herbs! A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a snack at home, these ideas will elevate your cauliflower tots to a whole new level! Enjoy!