Pin it
Cottage cheese transforms from an ordinary breakfast staple into something magical when combined with cauliflower in these crispy, golden tots. Unlike traditional potato tots that require multiple prep steps, these protein-packed bites come together in minutes with just a handful of everyday ingredients. The humble cottage cheese—that lumpy white stuff many of us grew up seeing on our parents' plates—becomes the secret ingredient that creates a creamy interior surrounded by a satisfyingly crisp exterior.
I discovered these tots when my sister made them during a summer visit last year. I watched in amazement as my children—who normally treat vegetables with deep suspicion—fought over the last few pieces. My youngest even asked if we could have 'those crispy cheese things' for dinner again the next night, which might be the highest praise any vegetable-based recipe has ever received in my household.
Ingredients for Cauliflower Tots
Pin it
- Cauliflower: 1 medium head, fresh preferred (or frozen, thoroughly drained)
- Cottage Cheese: 1 cup small-curd (4% milkfat recommended)
- Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup regular or panko (whole wheat adds nuttiness)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup freshly grated
- Scallions: 1/4 cup chopped
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp each garlic powder, onion powder, salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Egg: 1 large, beaten
How to Make Crispy Cauliflower Tots
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment
- Step 2:
- Steam/boil cauliflower until tender, drain thoroughly, squeeze dry in towel
- Step 3:
- Mash cauliflower in bowl, mix in cottage cheese, egg, seasonings
- Step 4:
- Fold in parmesan, scallions, then bread crumbs until moldable
- Step 5:
- Shape into 24 tots, place on baking sheet with space between
- Step 6:
- Bake 10 min, flip, bake 10-15 min more until golden and crisp
- Step 7:
- Rest 2-3 min before serving with dipping sauces
The Secret to Perfect Texture
Moisture control is crucial - thoroughly drain cauliflower (second squeeze helps) and consider straining cottage cheese. Chilling shaped tots 15-20 min before baking enhances crispiness.
Flavor Variations
- Mediterranean: Add dill and feta
- Southwestern: Cumin, chili powder, cilantro
- Italian: Italian herbs, sun-dried tomatoes
My vegetable-skeptic daughter declared these 'actually really good' - high praise from a 12-year-old critic. She now requests them regularly in her lunchbox where they stay delicious at room temperature.
Pin it
Freezing & Reheating
Freeze baked tots in single layer before bagging (keeps 3 months). Reheat frozen at 400°F for 15-20 min until crispy. Perfect for meal prep!
These tots transformed our family's view of both cauliflower and cottage cheese - from tolerated ingredients to actively requested favorites. They prove healthy food can be genuinely crave-worthy when prepared thoughtfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the cauliflower mixture and shape the tots up to a day in advance. Store the shaped tots covered in the refrigerator, then bake when ready to serve.
- → How can I make these gluten-free?
- Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
- → Can I freeze these cauliflower tots?
- Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
- → What can I serve with these cauliflower tots?
- These tots are great with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even ketchup. They also pair well with grilled proteins for a complete meal.
- → My tots are falling apart. What did I do wrong?
- This usually happens if the cauliflower has too much moisture. Make sure to drain it thoroughly after cooking and let it cool a bit before mixing. Adding a bit more breadcrumbs can help bind the mixture better.