Name: Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; ¾ cup cottage cheese; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; ⅓ cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Hey y'all! If you love crispy, cheesy snacks that come together in a flash, these Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese will be your new go-to. They're savory, packed with veggies and protein, and perfect as a fun appetizer, satisfying snack, or even a kid-friendly dinner. Whether you're eating low-carb, sneaking in extra veggies, or just want something delicious, these tots have you covered. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese Recipe

So simple: Ready in under 30 minutes using easily available ingredients.
Healthier choice: Low-carb, gluten-free, and high in protein thanks to cottage cheese.
Kid-approved: Crispy outside and cheesy inside, making veggies fun for everyone.
Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, snack, or lunchbox treat.
Great for meal prep: Make ahead and reheat for a quick bite anytime.

Ingredients for Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese

2 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 small head)
1 cup cottage cheese (small curd, low fat or full fat)
1 large egg
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs for not gluten-free)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Oil spray (for baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese

1. Prep the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets, cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender, then drain well. Pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Pulse and Mix the Tots Batter

Place cauliflower in a food processor and pulse until it resembles coarse rice (don't over-process, or it’ll get mushy!). Transfer to a large bowl. Add cottage cheese, egg, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and the mixture holds together. See cauliflower prepping tips here.

3. Shape the Tots

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form into small, tater tot-shaped cylinders or balls. Place each tot onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

4. Bake to Crispy Perfection

Lightly spray the tots with oil spray. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown on the bottom, then gently flip each tot and bake another 8-10 minutes, until the other side is crisp and golden. Let them cool slightly before serving for ultimate crunch!

Notes for Perfect Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese

Patting the cauliflower extra dry keeps your tots crispy and prevents sogginess.
If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the cauliflower and mash everything together by hand.
For more about the benefits of cottage cheese, check out this cottage cheese guide.

Variations for Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese

Spicy Jalapeño Tots: Add 1 finely chopped jalapeño for a kick.
Herby Italian Tots: Mix in 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning and swap cheddar for mozzarella.
Classic Potato & Cauliflower: Replace ½ of cauliflower with cooked, mashed potato for a more traditional tot flavor.

Required Equipment to Make Cauliflower Tots

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Food processor or sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Towel or cheesecloth (for drying cauliflower)
Cookie scoop (optional, for uniform tots)

Storage Instructions for Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese

Let tots cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag—reheat in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes until crisp.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions with Cauliflower Cottage Cheese Tots

Serve these tasty tots with ketchup, Greek yogurt ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo. Pair with a crisp green salad or alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal. They’re also perfect in lunchboxes or for game day snack boards!

Pro Tips for Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese

For best browning, use parchment paper instead of foil and bake at a high temperature.
If your mixture is too wet, add extra almond flour by the tablespoon until it holds together.
Try air frying for 12-14 minutes for an extra-crisp texture—see air frying basics at Serious Eats.

FAQ: Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese

Can I use frozen cauliflower?: Yes! Thaw and drain thoroughly, then pat dry to remove as much moisture as possible.
What’s the best way to reheat the tots?: Bake in a 400°F oven for 6-8 minutes, or air fry for 5-6 minutes at 390°F to crisp them back up.
Are these gluten-free?: Yes, as long as you use almond flour; substitute breadcrumbs only if gluten isn’t a concern.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Quick & Easy Cauliflower Tots with Cottage Cheese