Description
These Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Tots are a delicious and healthier twist on classic tots, featuring roasted cauliflower and garlic combined with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they make a perfect snack or side dish that’s gluten-free and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
Cheese & Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Others
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a crispy crust.
- Roast Cauliflower and Garlic: Spread the cauliflower florets and garlic cloves evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and slightly browned. Allow them to cool slightly before proceeding to avoid steam making the tots soggy.
- Process Cauliflower Mixture: Transfer the roasted cauliflower and garlic to a food processor. Pulse just enough to get finely chopped pieces without pureeing; small chunks should remain for texture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped cauliflower and garlic with shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well incorporated and sticky enough to hold shape.
- Form Tots: Shape the mixture into small tot shapes, approximately 2 inches long. Arrange them spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Oil Spray: Lightly spray the formed tots with olive oil spray to promote a golden, crispy exterior during baking.
- Bake Tots: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tots halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping on all sides. They should turn golden and crisp when done.
- Serve: Serve the roasted garlic cauliflower tots warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful snack or side dish.
Notes
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- Flipping the tots halfway through baking helps them crisp evenly on all sides.
- Letting roasted cauliflower cool before processing prevents a watery mixture.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- These tots can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
