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Easy Air Fryer Cauliflower Tater Tots

Easy Air Fryer Cauliflower Tater Tots

Crispy, cheesy air fryer cauliflower tater tots are a lighter, veggie-packed twist on the classic—golden outside, tender inside, and ready in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cup cauliflower rice from about 1 medium head; cooked and squeezed very dry
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoon green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing or spraying the air fryer basket
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped optional, for serving

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly brush or spray the basket with olive oil.
  • Steam the cauliflower rice until tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Let cool slightly, then place in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible until very dry.
  • In a large bowl, combine the squeezed-dry cauliflower, egg, cheddar, Parmesan, panko, green onion, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the mixture holds together when pressed.
  • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture, squeeze firmly, and shape into small tot cylinders about 1.5 inches long. Repeat with remaining mixture. For the crispiest results, chill shaped tots for 10 minutes.
  • Arrange tots in a single layer in the preheated basket, leaving space between pieces. Brush or mist the tops with a little olive oil.
  • Air fry for 10 minutes, carefully flip, then air fry 2 to 4 minutes more until golden and crisp (about 12 minutes total). Work in batches if needed.
  • Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired. Great with ketchup, ranch, or spicy mayo.

Notes

For best texture, squeeze the cauliflower very dry. To freeze, air fry until lightly golden, cool, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 6 to 8 minutes.