Cottage Cheese Tots

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in Protein: Thanks to the cottage cheese and egg, these tots pack a protein punch while still giving you that satisfying crispy exterior you crave.
  • Veggie-Packed: With cauliflower as the base, you’re sneaking in extra vegetables while enjoying what tastes like a classic comfort food.
  • Kid-Friendly: These tots look and taste so good that kids won’t even realize they’re eating something healthy – perfect for picky eaters!
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep these tots in advance and freeze them, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or quick snacks.
  • Healthier Alternative: Unlike store-bought tots loaded with preservatives, these homemade ones use simple, wholesome ingredients you can feel good about eating.

Ingredients

  • 1 head of cauliflower
  • 1 cup plain cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam or boil until tender. Drain well and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the cooked cauliflower. Add the cottage cheese, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
  3. Shape the Tots: Using your hands, form the mixture into small tot shapes, about 1 to 2 tablespoons each, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Cheese Options: While cottage cheese gives these tots their creamy texture, you can use ricotta cheese instead. Just make sure to drain it well first to avoid excess moisture.
  • Vegetable Alternatives: This is the base of the recipe, but you could try using broccoli or even grated zucchini (just be sure to squeeze out the excess water really well if using zucchini).
  • Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, try almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place the tots on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness.

FAQs

How do I prevent the tots from being too mushy?

Ensure that the cauliflower is well-drained and patted dry to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial to achieve a crispy texture.

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower rice. Thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before using it in the recipe.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tots?

These tots pair well with ranch dressing, honey mustard, marinara sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

Are these tots suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the baked tots. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven until heated through and crispy.

Can I make these tots vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg.

What other vegetables can I add to the mixture?

Finely chopped broccoli, grated carrots, or diced bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are cooked and well-drained.

How can I make the tots spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.

Can I air-fry these tots?

Yes, you can air-fry the tots at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

What can I use instead of bread crumbs?

Crushed crackers, panko, or even ground oats can be used as a substitute for bread crumbs.

How do I make the tots extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, spray the tots lightly with cooking oil before baking and place them on a wire rack set inside the baking sheet to allow air circulation underneath.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Tots are a versatile and healthy alternative to traditional tater tots, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike

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Cottage Cheese Tots

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Cottage Cheese Tots are a healthy and delicious twist on classic tater tots, made with cauliflower, cottage cheese, and wholesome ingredients. Packed with protein, kid-friendly, and freezer-ready, they’re perfect for snacks, sides, or appetizers.

 

Ingredients

  • 1 head of cauliflower
  • 1 cup plain cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cauliflower
    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender. Drain and pat dry to remove moisture.
  • Mix the Ingredients
    • In a bowl, mash the cooked cauliflower.
    • Add cottage cheese, bread crumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
  • Shape the Tots
    • Form small tot shapes using 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  • Serve
    • Cool slightly and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For Gluten-Free Tots: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked tots on a tray, then store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish, Snack, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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