Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Tots

Name: Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Tots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets; 4 cloves garlic, peeled; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); 1 large egg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Isabella

📖Life, Love, and Gastronomy 📖

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These roasted garlic cauliflower tots are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional tater tots. I love how the savory roasted garlic and cheesy flavors blend perfectly, making them an ideal snack, side dish, or appetizer for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m always looking for ways to enjoy comfort food without the guilt, and these cauliflower tots fit the bill perfectly. They’re lower in carbs than regular tots and packed with flavor thanks to the roasted garlic and a blend of cheeses. Plus, they’re easy to make and bake right in the oven, so there’s no deep frying involved. Whether I’m serving them to guests or just grabbing a quick snack, these tots never disappoint.

Ingredients

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

4 cloves garlic, peeled

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

1 large egg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Olive oil spray or cooking spray

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil.

Spread the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves on the baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and slightly browned. Let cool slightly.

Transfer the roasted cauliflower and garlic to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed—small chunks should remain.

In a large bowl, combine the chopped cauliflower mixture with cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well until everything is incorporated.

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small tot shapes, about 2 inches long, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Lightly spray the tots with olive oil spray for a crispy finish.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp on the outside.

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. The total time from start to finish is approximately 1 hour, including 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking.

Variations

I sometimes swap cheddar for mozzarella or add a bit of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor. For a spicier kick, I’ll add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes. To keep it dairy-free, I use a vegan cheese alternative and gluten-free breadcrumbs, which still yield great results.

Storage/reheating

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them back into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make them a bit soggy.

Related Recipes:

Roasted Cauliflower Soup

FAQs

Can I make these tots ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the tots in advance, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze cauliflower tots?

Absolutely. Arrange the shaped tots on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can finely chop the roasted cauliflower and garlic by hand, but it will take more time. The texture may be a bit chunkier but still delicious.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of panko. The texture and flavor remain excellent.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tots?

I enjoy them with ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or even a tangy yogurt dip. They’re versatile, so I like to experiment.

Conclusion

I find these roasted garlic cauliflower tots to be a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier snack without sacrificing flavor or texture. They’re easy to prepare, customizable to taste, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I serve them as a party appetizer or a side dish, they never last long on the plate. Give them a try, and I’m sure they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too.