Craving a crunchy, satisfying snack without the carbs? These Keto Cauliflower Tots are the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional tater tots. Made with riced cauliflower, cheese, and savory seasonings, they’re golden on the outside and tender on the inside. Ideal as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these little bites are sure to become a keto-friendly favorite.
Looking for more low-carb snack ideas? Subscribe now and get simple, healthy recipes delivered weekly to your inbox.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – All the comfort of tots without the potatoes.
Crispy & Cheesy – Crunchy outside, cheesy inside—what’s not to love?
Versatile – Perfect as a snack, side, or party appetizer.
Easy to Make – Just a few ingredients and simple steps.
Freezer-Friendly – Make a batch and reheat as needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Tots:
• 2 cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen and thawed)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup almond flour
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
• 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
• ½ tsp paprika or chili powder (for a little heat)
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for extra umami)
For Serving:
• Sugar-free ketchup or ranch dip
• Greek yogurt with herbs
• Spicy mustard or cheese sauce
Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Grater and spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor (optional, if ricing cauliflower fresh)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower
- If using fresh cauliflower, pulse florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
- Steam or microwave riced cauliflower until tender (about 3–4 minutes).
- Let cool, then place in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is key for crispy tots.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, egg, cheddar, Parmesan, almond flour, garlic, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until fully combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and shape into a small cylinder or oval tot.
- Place on the baking sheet and repeat until all the mixture is used.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tots are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—but watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve & Dip
- Let cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce.
- Garnish with chopped herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Tips for the Best Cauliflower Tots
Squeeze Out Moisture – This is crucial for a firm, crispy texture.
Use a Non-Stick Surface – Parchment or a silicone mat helps prevent sticking.
Customize the Flavor – Add different herbs, spices, or cheeses.
Keep It Keto – Avoid breadcrumbs and use almond flour to stay low-carb.
Make Ahead – Freeze before or after baking for a convenient snack.
Serving Suggestions
• Game Day Snack – Serve with dips like guacamole, ranch, or spicy mayo.
• Kid-Friendly Side – Pair with grilled chicken or turkey burgers.
• Brunch Platter – Include with scrambled eggs and avocado.
• Party Appetizer – Make them bite-sized for easy sharing.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Refrigerate: Store cooled tots in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Place on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keep up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 10 minutes until warmed and crispy.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes for best texture.
Microwave: Use for quick heating, but they may lose crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make them in the air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
2. Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
Yes, but use only 2–3 tbsp since coconut flour is more absorbent.
3. Are these gluten-free?
Absolutely—just make sure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
4. What cheese works best?
Cheddar and Parmesan are ideal, but mozzarella or pepper jack are great variations.
Final Thoughts
Keto Cauliflower Tots are a crispy, cheesy snack you can feel good about. Whether you’re on a low-carb diet or just trying to eat more veggies, these tasty little bites are the perfect way to indulge without the guilt. Easy to make, totally customizable, and seriously addictive—you’ll want to keep a batch on hand at all times.
Give them a try and let us know how they turn out! Tag your creations and leave a review so others can enjoy them too.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 5 tots):
Calories: 160 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 4g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 280mg

Keto Cauliflower Tots
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Craving a crunchy, satisfying snack without the carbs? These Keto Cauliflower Tots are the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional tater tots. Made with riced cauliflower, cheese, and savory seasonings, they’re golden on the outside and tender on the inside. Ideal as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these little bites are sure to become a keto-friendly favorite.
Looking for more low-carb snack ideas? Subscribe now and get simple, healthy recipes delivered weekly to your inbox.
Ingredients
For the Tots:
• 2 cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen and thawed)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup almond flour
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
• 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
• ½ tsp paprika or chili powder (for a little heat)
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for extra umami)
For Serving:
• Sugar-free ketchup or ranch dip
• Greek yogurt with herbs
• Spicy mustard or cheese sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower
-
If using fresh cauliflower, pulse florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
-
Steam or microwave riced cauliflower until tender (about 3–4 minutes).
-
Let cool, then place in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is key for crispy tots.
Step 2: Make the Mixture
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, egg, cheddar, Parmesan, almond flour, garlic, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
-
Mix until fully combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Shape the Tots
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and shape into a small cylinder or oval tot.
-
Place on the baking sheet and repeat until all the mixture is used.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
-
Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tots are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
-
For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—but watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve & Dip
-
Let cool slightly and serve warm with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce.
-
Garnish with chopped herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Squeeze Out Moisture – This is crucial for a firm, crispy texture.
Use a Non-Stick Surface – Parchment or a silicone mat helps prevent sticking.
Customize the Flavor – Add different herbs, spices, or cheeses.
Keep It Keto – Avoid breadcrumbs and use almond flour to stay low-carb.
Make Ahead – Freeze before or after baking for a convenient snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American