Save Cheddar & Chive Cauliflower Tater Tots are my answer whenever I want a crispy finger food that feels comforting but sneaks in extra veggies. These tots get devoured at family movie nights and are absolutely perfect for potlucks or snacks when you crave that nostalgic tater tot crunch but want something a bit lighter.
I first whipped these up to use leftover cauliflower from Sunday dinner and my teenagers inhaled the first batch I barely even got to taste them the first time around
Ingredients
- Cauliflower florets: Fresh cauliflower chopped small guarantees tender tots and a fluffy inside If buying packaged look for bright white florets with minimal brown spots
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Use the best quality cheese you can find It creates the iconic cheesy melt and savory flavor
- Chives: Fresh chives make these tots sing with a gentle oniony lift If unavailable you can use scallion greens but stick with fresh for brightness
- Panko breadcrumbs: These help bind the mixture and crisp up the exterior Go with Japanese style for crunch
- Large egg: The egg keeps everything together and gives the tots stability without making them dense
- Salt and pepper: These basics are essential for bringing all the flavors forward Use freshly cracked pepper if possible
- Optional pinch of garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle savory note especially if you love a punchier tot
Instructions
- Steam the Cauliflower:
- Cut cauliflower into small florets and place in a steamer basket over simmering water Steam for about ten minutes until fork tender but not mushy Let them cool completely for at least five minutes You want as little moisture as possible
- Mash and Dry Out:
- Transfer the cooled florets to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze as much moisture out as you can Then mash thoroughly with a potato masher or pulse briefly in a food processor You want tiny coarse crumbs instead of a puree
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large bowl combine mashed cauliflower with cheddar chives panko egg salt pepper and garlic powder if using Mix with clean hands or a sturdy spoon until very well blended If it feels very wet add a tablespoon more panko
- Shape into Tots:
- Scoop a heaping tablespoon of mixture and squeeze it in your hand then form into little logs about one inch long and one half inch wide This helps them bake up nice and crisp Place each on a parchment lined baking sheet
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit Arrange tots so they have space between them Spray or brush lightly with oil Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes flipping halfway through until deeply golden with crisp edges Cool a minute before serving
Save My favorite part is the way the fresh chives and sharp cheddar make each bite sing with flavor They remind me of loading baked potatoes with toppings when I was a kid and now my own family gets that same joy in tot form
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days To revive the crunch reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer Avoid microwaving as it softens the exterior too much For longer storage cool completely then freeze in a single layer on a sheet pan When solid transfer to bags and bake straight from frozen at 400 degrees until piping hot
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a dairy free version swap out the cheddar for vegan cheese shreds You can play around with herbs too try fresh dill or parsley in place of chives For an even crunchier texture use seasoned Italian breadcrumbs or half panko half crushed cornflakes
Serving Suggestions
Serve with classic ketchup tangy ranch or a sprinkle of smoked paprika and Greek yogurt for dipping They are fun with burgers or alongside a tossed green salad You can even make mini sandwiches with them for a creative lunchbox treat
Cultural Spotlight
Inspired by the irresistible nostalgia of tater tots but reinvented for modern veggie lovers These have become a staple on my game day snack table and are my small tribute to how comfort food can evolve yet keep us smiling from the first bite
Save If you bake one tiny test tot first you will always end up with the perfect texture and seasoning. Enjoy your crispy cheesy bites with your favorite dip.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I get tots crispy?
Place tots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leave space between, and bake at a high heat for best crispiness.
- → Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes. Be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing to prevent sogginess.
- → Are these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free breadcrumb or flour alternative if needed for a gluten-free option.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Classic choices include ranch, ketchup, spicy aioli, or sriracha mayo to complement the flavors.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool tots completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in oven for best texture.
- → Can I substitute other cheeses?
Swap cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or parmesan for different flavor profiles and melting qualities.