Description
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these roasted garlic cauliflower tots offer a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional tater tots, combining savory roasted garlic and cheesy goodness for a perfect snack or side.
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
Instructions
- 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 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 incorporated.
- 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.
Notes
Can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
Use vegan cheese and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a dairy-free option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can prepare and shape tots ahead, refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Freeze shaped tots on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snack, Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting, Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
