Cheddar Chive Cauliflower Tots (Printable)

Enjoy cauliflower tots with cheddar and chives, baked golden for flavorful, crispy snacking.

# What You'll Need:

→ Main Components

01 - 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
02 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
04 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
05 - 1 large egg, lightly beaten
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - Nonstick cooking spray

# How to make it:

01 - Heat oven to 400°F. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining with parchment paper and lightly coating with nonstick spray.
02 - Place cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for 8–10 minutes until tender.
03 - Transfer steamed cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel and allow to cool for a few minutes.
04 - Wrap cauliflower in the towel and squeeze forcefully to remove as much moisture as possible.
05 - Add dried cauliflower florets to a food processor and pulse several times until finely chopped but not puréed.
06 - Transfer processed cauliflower to a bowl. Add cheddar cheese, chives, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
07 - Using hands, shape mixture into approximately 1-inch oval pieces and arrange evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
08 - Mist tater tots with nonstick spray. Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
09 - Allow tater tots to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy immediately for best texture.

# Recipe Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Crispy edges and creamy cheesy insides deliver classic tot satisfaction
  • Packed with cauliflower so you get extra veggies without sacrificing flavor
  • Baked not fried so they are lighter and less messy to make
  • Kid approved and completely freezable for future snack emergencies
02 -
  • Naturally gluten free if you swap gluten free panko
  • Excellent way to use up leftover veggies
  • Easy to double for a crowd or freeze for later
03 -
  • Always squeeze every bit of moisture out of the cauliflower or the tots will be soft not crisp
  • Use your hands to shape and compact the tots firmly so they hold together well A generous spray of oil before baking makes the outside golden Make one tiny test tot and bake it before shaping the rest This lets you check the seasoning and texture without committing the whole batch